Australian Broadcasting Corp./Russia Today - 04.17.2002

Russia Today

Ukrainian Jews Demonstrate Support for Israel

From Australian Broadcasting Corporation Online

Nearly 2,000 Ukrainians, mostly Jewish, have demonstrated in Kiev to protest against a recent attack at a city synagogue and to support Israel's military offensive on the West Bank.

The protesters gathered in the centre of Kiev, waving banners that read: "No to Fascism," "Ukraine Loves Israel," and "The Jews and the Ukrainians are Brothers For Ever."

"My family was shocked by the attack on the synagogue. It must never happen again," said Borukh, a 40-year-old Jewish protester.

"Until now I've never suffered anti-Semitism in Ukraine, where people are usually kind and friendly."

Around 50 youths attacked the synagogue in downtown Kiev on Saturday night, breaking windows and beating several worshippers including a rabbi.

However, Ukraine's Interior Ministry has denied anti-Semitism was the motive for the attack, which it has attributed to football hooligans.