Servicemen, veterans, and various individuals gathered in Kyiv to pay tribute to Anton Samborskyi, the adopted son of Ukraine’s chief rabbi, Moshe Azman, who tragically lost his life in combat, showcasing unity among Ukraine’s diverse communities in the face of Russia’s invasion. Samborskyi, 32, went missing in late July, and after weeks of uncertainty, his death was confirmed. The funeral service was held at the Central Synagogue of Kyiv, followed by a burial at the city’s Jewish cemetery.

Rabbi Azman, who adopted Samborskyi when he was a 10-year-old orphan, publicly expressed his sorrow, referring to his son by his chosen Jewish name, Matityahu or “Moty.” Azman shared on social media that Samborskyi became a father to a daughter in May but was called to army duty a week after the baby’s birth. The last conversation between father and son took place on July 17.

Approximately 100 mourners, including servicemen and veterans in uniform, many adorned with yarmulkes, some with camouflage designs, attended the service to honor Samborskyi. David Milman, a Jewish army chaplain present at the ceremony, emphasized that Samborskyi volunteered to defend his country, joining an assault brigade for that purpose.

Ukraine boasts a rich Jewish heritage, with Jewish communities contributing significantly to the nation’s cultural and religious fabric throughout history despite facing periods of persecution. The country’s Jewish population was drastically reduced during the Holocaust in World War II. Presently, Jews represent around 0.2% of Ukraine’s population, including its wartime president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Olena Tolkachova, a member of an assault brigade combatting in eastern and southern Ukraine, highlighted the diverse range of volunteers coming together to oppose Russia. She underscored the importance of individuals from various ethnicities and religious backgrounds, such as Orthodox and Catholics, Jews, and followers of the Islamic faith, standing united in defending Ukraine.

The gathering served as a poignant reminder of the unwavering solidarity among Ukraine’s different communities during these challenging times.