The Light of Hanukkah under the arches of the museum: an interfaith ceremony with the participation of military personnel and the Israeli ambassador took place in Kyiv

On December 16, 2025, the traditional interfaith ceremony of lighting Hanukkah candles took place at the Museum of the History of Kyiv. This year it acquired special significance — among the participants were servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the Chief Rabbi of Ukraine Moshe Reuven Asman, and the Ambassador of Israel Michael Brodsky.

The event was reported by the Kyiv Museum and the Embassy of Israel in Ukraine, emphasizing the symbolic nature of the meeting in the context of the ongoing war.

Representatives of different faiths, military personnel from the Jewish community, diplomats, cultural figures, and public activists gathered in one hall. Together they lit the third Hanukkah candle — a gesture that on this evening resonated as a reminder of resilience, memory, and hope.

For Ukrainian military personnel, participation in the religious ceremony was not a formality but part of a living tradition that is preserved even in the conditions of the frontline reality. The presence of the Israeli ambassador emphasized the international dimension of the event and the close connection between Ukraine and Israel.

The All-Ukrainian Charitable Foundation “For You” co-organized the ceremony. In addition to lighting the candles, honorary awards were presented as part of the event.

Rosa Tapanova, Director of the National Historical and Memorial Reserve “Babyn Yar,” presented the “Living Memory” award to the spouse of Diana Popova — Director of the Kyiv Museum, who passed away this spring. Diana Popova was recognized for her contribution to preserving the memory of the Babyn Yar tragedy and her consistent work with historical heritage.

Another important part of the ceremony was the presentation of the “Person of the Year” award by the Kyiv City Jewish Community. It was awarded to Alexander Zlotnik — composer, People’s Artist of Ukraine, and Rector of the Kyiv Municipal Academy of Music named after R. M. Glier.

On this evening, the Hanukkah candles became not only a religious symbol but also a sign of dialogue, solidarity, and shared responsibility for memory and the future. Such events shape a space of mutual respect and cultural unity, which is increasingly discussed today in the context of Ukraine and Israel — and which remains the focus of NAnews — News of Israel | Nikk.Agency.