By: Fern Sidman

In a poignant display of faith and resilience against the backdrop of war, dozens of Chabad rabbis gathered on Wednesday at the Babi Yar Holocaust memorial in Kyiv for a meeting with Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, special envoy of President Donald Trump. The event, held under tight security measures, underscored the enduring strength of Jewish communities in Ukraine despite the nation’s ongoing conflict.

According to a report on Thursday at VIN News (Vois Es Nais), the gathering was a deeply emotional occasion marked by solemn prayers, personal testimonies, and reflections on the challenges facing Jewish life in wartime Ukraine. The presence of Kellogg, who traveled to Kyiv as an official envoy of the Trump administration, highlighted the significance of the meeting on both humanitarian and diplomatic fronts.

“We want to hear your voice”

As part of a high-level visit to Ukraine, U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy, General Keith Kellogg, held a private meeting in Kyiv with leading rabbis of the #FJCU – Chabad emissaries who lead #Jewish communities across the country. pic.twitter.com/tcB5URovY8

— FJCU (@FJCU) July 17, 2025

As VIN News reported, the rabbis convened at Babi Yar, the site of one of the most notorious massacres of the Holocaust, where tens of thousands of Jews were murdered by Nazi forces during World War II. The choice of location was deeply symbolic, serving as a solemn reminder of the atrocities of the past and the resilience of Jewish life in the present.

Rabbi Rafael Rutman opened the ceremony with a stirring recitation of Psalm 23. The prayer, known for its message of faith amid adversity, moved Lt. Gen. Kellogg to tears — a moment described as emblematic of the gathering’s emotional depth.

Rabbi Moshe Azman, a leading Chabad figure in Ukraine, offered a heartfelt blessing, invoking strength and protection for the Jewish people and all those affected by the war. Rabbi Meir Stambler followed with remarks on the remarkable revival efforts led by Chabad across Ukraine, noting that Jewish life has been reestablished in more than 169 cities despite the ongoing conflict.

The report at VIN News emphasized Stambler’s recognition of the immense hardships endured by Jewish communities in areas directly impacted by the war. More than ten cities with active Chabad presence have faced severe disruptions, yet community leaders continue their outreach, preserving religious life and humanitarian services amidst the devastation.

Rabbi Yechiel Levitansky, who made the decision to remain in the embattled city of Sumy, shared personal accounts of ministering to Holocaust survivors and families displaced by the war. Levitansky’s stories reflected both the enduring hardships and the unwavering commitment of Chabad emissaries to serve their communities, even under the most dangerous conditions.

Levitansky’s experiences shed light on the unique role Chabad rabbis have played in wartime Ukraine — not only as spiritual leaders but as sources of comfort and stability for communities torn apart by conflict. His testimony resonated deeply with those present and underscored the profound human impact of the war.

In the course of the gathering, Ukrainian government officials reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding Jewish life in Ukraine. According to the information provided in the VIN News report, the officials highlighted swift responses to the rare instances of antisemitic incidents, emphasizing that the safety and wellbeing of Jewish citizens remains a priority for the Ukrainian state.

This reassurance comes at a critical time, with communities facing not only the threats posed by military conflict but also concerns over societal tensions that can accompany periods of national crisis. Ukrainian leaders view the Jewish community as an integral part of the nation’s social fabric and are committed to its protection and flourishing.

Lt. Gen. Kellogg, representing President Trump, made it clear that his mission in Kyiv was to listen directly to the voices of Jewish leaders and understand the realities on the ground. Kellogg’s statement at the memorial expressed his intent to bring these firsthand accounts back to President Trump, ensuring that the administration remains informed about the situation in Ukraine and the needs of its Jewish communities.

The meeting reflected Kellogg’s recognition of the critical role religious leaders play in maintaining societal cohesion during times of upheaval. His emotional response during the ceremony, especially during the recitation of prayers, underscored the gravity with which he approached the visit.

In a noteworthy acknowledgment of the event, the office of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised the gathered rabbis, describing them as “ambassadors of light” who are vital to maintaining morale and hope within the country. VIN News reported that this commendation reflects the respect afforded to Chabad emissaries for their ongoing humanitarian and spiritual efforts, which have become even more critical amid the war.

Zelensky’s recognition highlights a broader appreciation of the Jewish community’s contributions to Ukraine’s cultural and moral resilience. The role of Chabad rabbis, particularly in times of crisis, extends beyond religious duties — encompassing social support, humanitarian aid, and intercommunal solidarity.

As VIN News captured in its reporting, the gathering at Babi Yar served as a powerful testament to the enduring commitment of Chabad leaders to their mission in Ukraine. Despite the ravages of war, these rabbis have continued to serve their communities, offer solace to the afflicted, and uphold the memory of those lost in past atrocities.

The meeting also illustrated the Trump administration’s ongoing engagement with humanitarian issues related to Ukraine, as evidenced by Kellogg’s visit and his pledge to brief the President. According to the information contained in the VIN News report, the presence of a high-level U.S. envoy at the memorial site conveyed a message of solidarity with both the Jewish people of Ukraine and the broader efforts to preserve human dignity amid conflict.

The report at VIN News portrayed the event not merely as a ceremonial gathering, but as a significant moment of reflection, resolve, and reaffirmation of shared values. The legacy of Babi Yar, coupled with the present-day challenges of war-torn Ukraine, served as a solemn backdrop for a meeting that blended historical remembrance with urgent contemporary concerns.

As Ukraine continues to navigate its path through conflict and recovery, the stories of resilience shared at this gathering stand as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of faith, community, and human solidarity in the face of adversity.