Ukraine imposes entry restrictions on Israeli citizens, including pilgrims
The restriction will affect thousands of religious pilgrims who visit Uman annually.
Ukrainian Ambassador Yevhen Korniychuk announced that Ukraine is compelled to impose entry restrictions on Israeli citizens, including pilgrims, in response to changes in Israel's entry rules for Ukrainian citizens, according to the press service of the Ukrainian embassy in Israel.
"Starting July 1, citizens of visa-free countries with Israel, including Ukraine, must submit documents to obtain an ETA-IL permit for stays of up to 90 days. This requirement effectively nullifies the visa-free regime. In response, Ukraine will introduce similar pre-approval requirements for Israeli citizens, including pilgrims," the statement said.
The ambassador noted that Ukraine is currently considering the specifics of these electronic visas.
"This mutual action will affect thousands of religious pilgrims who annually visit Uman," he stated.
Korniychuk also emphasized that Ukraine remains open to dialogue with Israel "to discuss and negotiate these changes in travel policy for the benefit of both countries."
As previously reported, ultra-Orthodox Jews in Israel protested, stating they would rather die than serve.
