Both of these countries are currently at war, defending their sovereignty, independence, and borders. They are under threat from air attacks by aggressors and terrorists, suffering losses in human lives and equipment during combat. However, the similarities do not end there. The populations of both countries have chosen a democratic path of development, a path of freedom and dignity. This greatly irritates dictatorial regimes, forming the "triangle of evil": Russia-Iran-North Korea, which either directly or indirectly wages war against these nations. Both countries receive military, financial, and humanitarian aid from the United States. There is another notable similarity—both countries are led by Jewish leaders.
However, there are far more differences. Firstly, there is the difference in territory and population. Without delving into specific figures, which may change, it is important to note that Ukraine is larger in territory, has a bigger army, more resources, and more potential. However, the Israeli army's equipment with modern, effective types of weapons is significantly superior. Currently, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are considered among the most advanced and strongest in the world. In terms of electronic warfare equipment, precision weapons, and management systems, they rank highly in analysts' ratings. The recent battles fought by this army demonstrate its high combat effectiveness. This level is something that the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) have yet to achieve. The combat readiness and motivation of the Ukrainian army are also high, but today, they sometimes have to retreat due to a lack of weapons and equipment.
Israel has developed the "Iron Dome" air defense system, which effectively protects its airspace by intercepting all aerial threats. Ukraine, unfortunately, does not have such a system, resulting in daily air attacks by Russian drones, missiles, and bombs on its towns and villages, causing destruction and death. Every day, adults, children, soldiers, and civilians die. This is a stark difference between Ukraine and Israel. Meanwhile, the world, often cynical, seems unable (or unwilling) to do anything to stop this, merely expressing condemnation and concern.
Another key difference is in their statehood history. The establishment of Israel began in 1897, and the state's sovereignty was declared on May 14, 1948. Israeli society has walked a thorny path through wars and losses to achieve its current strength. Does Ukraine face a similar journey ahead?
The consistent and significant support Israel receives from the superpower—the United States—has also been a major factor. A strong Jewish diaspora plays a large role in this. As of 2018, the global Jewish population was 14.6 million, with about 45% living in Israel, 42% in the United States and Canada, and over 9% in the European Union. Jewish communities exist in 98 countries worldwide. In contrast, the Ukrainian diaspora in the U.S. and globally is much smaller. Out of 5 million Ukrainians living in the Western diaspora, about 2 million reside in the U.S., and their financial-economic capabilities are not as substantial as those of the Jewish community.
Nearly all U.S. presidential administrations have paid more attention to Israel, providing stronger support. Trump's position during his previous term was unequivocally pro-Israel. Under his initiative, the U.S. moved its embassy from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, a highly symbolic act given the city's contested status—both Palestine and Israel claim it as their capital.
It remains unclear how Trump and his administration will approach Ukraine. Judging by his statements and appointments, the outlook appears bleak. Plans to reduce aid to Ukraine, to distance from its war-related issues, and to show leniency toward the aggressor—Russia—are anticipated. We await his first actions post-inauguration. Our hope lies in the American people, whose majority supports Ukraine and will not allow it to be harmed. Trump, in turn, may not risk defying the will of the people.
Regardless of the political landscape, we must continue our work—defeating Russian forces with all our strength, rebuilding our economy, defense industry, and military, reclaiming our territories, and achieving victories on the battlefield. We must accelerate the production of our own missiles to strike the enemy on their own land without asking for America's permission. In the future, we should aim to build our own aircraft, tanks, and armored vehicles. If necessary, we could even restore our nuclear arsenal, as we possess the capacity to do so. We have much to learn from Israel.
When Golda Meir was asked whether Israel had nuclear weapons, she famously replied, "No, we don't have it, but if necessary, we will use it." Ukraine must also learn how to live under the constant threat of invasion from a dangerous and bloodthirsty neighbor while developing and rebuilding itself. Strengthening diplomatic ties, business connections with Israel, and fostering civil dialogue and relations is crucial. Israel should transform from a distant observer to a friend and ally, as we face similar threats, and today it is stronger than us, though smaller. I firmly believe that once we become stronger, we will offer them our support as well.
I once listened to an Israeli political analyst who suggested that Ukraine, the Baltic states, and Israel, which suffer the most from neighborly aggression, should form a "triangle of good" to combat the "triangle of evil." These may be dreams, but sometimes even impossible dreams come true. Let us strive for this!
Glory to Ukraine!
Author: Myroslav Grekh