Ukraine Offers Firefighting Aid to Israel Amid National Emergency
As Israel continues to battle some of the most devastating wildfires in its history, Ukraine has stepped forward with an offer of urgent assistance, signaling solidarity during a time of national emergency, The Gaze reports.
The Minister of foreign affairs of Ukraine, Andriy Sybiha, confirmed Thursday that Kyiv is prepared to send aid, including specialized equipment and emergency personnel.
“The Ukrainian government is ready to assist Israel in combating raging wildfires. We can send firefighting equipment, including a specialized plane, and our skilled rescuers,” Sybiha said.
Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko has formally passed Ukraine’s offer to the Israeli authorities.
“Even as we defend against aggression at home, we are ready to assist others in saving human lives,” Sybiha added.
The message comes as wildfires rage across central Israel for a second day, fueled by high winds and unseasonably dry weather. The flames have forced mass evacuations, road closures, and the cancellation of public events marking Israel’s 77th Independence Day.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu declared a national emergency on Wednesday after fires broke out along the major Jerusalem–Tel Aviv highway, leading to the evacuation of thousands from nearby communities. One of the country’s largest broadcasters, Channel 12, was forced to evacuate its studio near Jerusalem during a live news bulletin.
Ukraine’s offer to assist is a powerful gesture of support at a time when it continues to face its own challenges defending against Russian aggression.
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