Ukraine and Israel have long-standing historical ties. Our nations have together experienced all the tragedies in recent history - the Holodomor and the Holocaust, the Second World War, and the totalitarian Soviet regime.

Volodymyr Zelensky’s quote emphasizes the shared historical ties between Ukraine and Israel, rooted in profound tragedies of the 20th century. By mentioning the Holodomor, the Holocaust, the Second World War, and the totalitarian Soviet regime, he draws attention to the parallel experiences of suffering, oppression, and survival that have shaped both nations. His words highlight a sense of solidarity built not only on diplomacy but on shared memory and collective trauma.

The meaning of the quote lies in its reminder that history creates bonds as much as it divides. By acknowledging these tragedies, Zelensky frames the relationship between Ukraine and Israel as one founded on empathy and mutual understanding. Both nations endured devastating losses—whether through famine, genocide, war, or political repression—and those experiences inform their modern identities and their resilience in the face of ongoing challenges.

The origin of this statement comes from Zelensky’s role as President of Ukraine and his efforts to strengthen international partnerships. As the first Jewish president of Ukraine, his words also carry personal weight, bridging the histories of Jewish suffering in Europe with Ukraine’s broader struggles under Soviet and Nazi rule. By invoking these historical connections, Zelensky seeks not only to honor the past but also to reinforce political and cultural cooperation in the present.

Ultimately, Zelensky’s quote serves both as commemoration and as diplomacy. It acknowledges the deep scars left by the Holodomor, the Holocaust, and other tragedies, while also affirming that Ukraine and Israel can draw strength from their shared history. His statement reflects the idea that remembering these hardships is essential—not just to honor victims, but to build unity and resilience in the face of new global threats.