Repatriates from Ukraine on the front lines of Israel's war: three stories of courage and sacrifice

Israel's war with Hamas and Hezbollah has revealed the strength and resilience of Ukrainian returnees serving in the IDF. These include Danil Esterkin, Daniel Gorodensky and Yulia, all of whom are dedicated to defending Israel, despite personal difficulties. Their stories told Jerusalem Post details how each of them ended up in Israel and what led them to serve in the armywhere they demonstrate their willingness to sacrifice for the security of the country that has become their homeland.

Danil Esterkin: the path through the Selah program

Danil Esterkin came to Israel in 2002 from Ukraine under the Selah program, which was organized by the Jewish Agency, helping young Jews repatriate. This program played a key role in his adaptation and allowed him to quickly integrate into Israeli society. He served in the Golan Brigade and continues to support Israel both at the front and in civilian life.

Life and family

Now Danil is a father of two children, working in the media field. His family life faces difficulties as he cannot be with his family at critical times, as he was at the birth of his second child. However, it is important for him to protect the country that has become his home.

Quote from Danil:

“There was never any doubt that Israel is our home.”

Role in the community

Shishi Shabbat Yisraelithe organization that helped him find his place in Israel, played a significant role. It was there that he met his future wife and made friends with whom he feels supported.

Daniel Gorodensky: study and service

Daniel Gorodensky immigrated to Israel and joined the army in 2014, joining the Golan Brigade. Studying industrial design, he built a career and worked in Bezalel Academybut despite his career success, being called up to the IDF for reserve duty greatly affected his emotional state.

Family difficulties

Daniel had to leave his family with small children, and this decision was extremely difficult for everyone. Left alone, his wife faced challenges, but received help from Shishi Shabbat Yisraeli helped her cope during the period when her husband was at the front.

Quote from Daniel:

“When I returned, I was on the verge of an emotional breakdown.”

Social support

Organization Shishi Shabbat Yisraeli played an important role in his life, providing family support in the absence of her husband.

Yulia: from Ukraine to the northern border of Israel

Yulia, who came to Israel in 2018 as part of the Naale program, is serving in the IDF parachute brigade on Israel’s northern border. Julia entered the army as a lone soldier and faced the unique challenges that beset lone soldiers.

Personal perception of the service

When Yulia received the summons, she experienced mixed feelings of fear and pride, but the decision was clear: “We are doing this because we believe in the mission.” For her, serving in the IDF is the path to protecting her native land.

Support for repatriates from the former USSR in the IDF

More than 24,000 repatriates arrived in Israel during the war with Hamas, of whom about 1,200 joined the IDF. Ukrainian repatriates such as Danil, Daniel and Yulia have become examples of courage, showing the importance of integration and assistance.

Shishi Shabbat Yisraeli is an organization dedicated to supporting immigrants to Israel, offering programs to integrate into Israeli society, strengthen Jewish identity, and build community. It organizes various events, including seminars, cultural meetings and celebrations, which promote social connection and mutual assistance among new returnees.

For more information, you can visit their official website: Shishi Shabbat Yisraeli.

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