As Israel prepares for national elections, relations between Ukraine and Israel are showing signs of cautious improvement. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has reached out directly to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, marking a significant moment in their diplomatic engagement.
In a letter commemorating Ukraine’s Independence Day on August 24, Netanyahu congratulated Zelensky and the Ukrainian people, commending their resilience while identifying Iran as a mutual threat. This outreach follows a period of limited Israeli support and a notable dispute regarding grain shipments from Russian-occupied Ukrainian territories.
Two days after receiving the letter, Zelensky publicly acknowledged the deep societal, economic, and cultural ties between the two nations. He expressed optimism about Israel’s intention to strengthen these connections and emphasized Ukraine’s commitment to enhancing security cooperation.
The Washington Meeting
Netanyahu’s letter also referenced a brief encounter with Zelensky during the late July funeral of U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham in Washington, which was their first in-person interaction since September 2023. Although attempts to schedule a formal bilateral meeting were unsuccessful, the exchange was described as cordial.
On the same day, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar engaged with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, inviting him to visit Israel and reiterating the shared concern over Iran.
Stolen Grain Strained Relations
Despite providing humanitarian aid and advanced technology to Ukraine since the onset of Russia’s full-scale invasion, Israel has been hesitant to fulfill Kyiv’s requests for significant military support. Relations soured in April when Ukraine accused Israel of allowing grain shipments from Russian-occupied territories to enter Haifa, leading to public disputes and diplomatic tensions.
Ukraine’s calls for investigations into these shipments were met with resistance from Israeli officials, who argued that formal requests were lacking. The situation highlighted the complexities in military assistance and communication between the two governments.
Iran Creates Common Ground
The ongoing conflict involving Iran has fostered a greater alignment between Kyiv and Jerusalem. Iranian-made drones have been utilized by Russia against Ukraine, providing Kyiv with valuable experience in countering such threats, which also concern Israel.
Reports indicate that Israel has approached Ukraine regarding potential collaboration on drone interception, with Kyiv expressing openness to share its operational expertise and technology in exchange for increased military support.
Elections
Despite the recent thaw in relations, significant changes in Israeli policy towards Ukraine are unlikely before the elections on October 27. Following the elections, the president will consult with the newly elected Knesset members to form a government, a process that could extend into December.
Sources in Jerusalem suggest that no major decisions regarding Ukraine are expected until after the elections and the formation of the new government. The current diplomatic engagement is anticipated to foster renewed political dialogue rather than immediate shifts in military assistance.
As the election approaches, the outcome will determine whether Netanyahu retains his position or a new coalition emerges, with Ukraine preparing to engage with whichever government takes power.
