The Chief Rabbi of Ukraine has blasted Vladimir Putin’s “crimes against humanity” after he launched Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Rabbi Moshe Reuven Azman made the remark as prepares to make a second attempt to return to the Kherson region badly affected by a Russian attack on the Kakhovka damn.

Rabbi Azman has launched a fundraising campaign to help provide supplies to people still living in the region after thousands fled when the Russian invasion started last year. 

Speaking to the JC, Rabbi Azman said: “We have a campaign to help the poor citizens who are suffering. Every dollar can literally help save a life. I'm begging you, please don't stand by.

“Thank God that you can sit at home with your families, without worrying, but remember what is happening not far from you. These are crimes against humanity.

“I appeal from the bottom of my heart to everyone who can help, that they do so in whatever way possible, whether it's by providing time, equipment, or whether it's with a donation.”

humanitarian aid delivery in Kherson

Humanitarian aid delivery in Kherson. Stock image. (Photo: Getty)

The Chief Rabbi in Ukraine also said he would return to the region to help continue the rescue efforts. He explained: “We are returning there again this week to continue the rescue efforts. This is my duty as a rabbi, as a Jew, and as a human being.”

Due to security reasons, Rabbi Azman cannot say what day he is visiting the area, having come under attack last week from artillery shelling. 

Recalling the incident, he said: “As we neared our destination, the Russian artillery shell exploded very close to us. We were alone in the water at that time. 

“It's a miracle that we survived. It was very close to us, maybe about two metres away. 

“When we reached dry land, they continued the targeted explosions. It was a pretty small area. People were lying in the dirt. There were shouts. Miraculously, no one was hurt.

“The Russians did not hesitate to target the humanitarian rescuers who came to the scene to help the flood victims. 

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Russian President Vladimir Putin (Photo: Getty Images)

“The Russians fired straight into where the rescuers were gathered. Only thanks to a miracle was no one killed. I injured my hand a little but thank God I am fine. I don't have time to think about it. I'm busy saving lives. 

“We also brought equipment to save the many animals that were injured there and to assist with their rescue.”

Although many of the Jews in the Kherson Oblast region in the city of Kherson itself, there is still a small community left. 

Of those who did remain, Rabbi Azman points out “dozens have lost their homes in the dam disaster and subsequent flooding.”

He continued: “The Jews who remained in Kherson mostly did so because they were unable to leave, either because of lockdowns, economic difficulty, other family who remained, sons or husbands who were inscripted, or old age.”

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Kherson residents receiving aid. Stock image. (Photo: Getty Images)

Having been able to move some of them to the refugee village of Anatevka on the outskirts of Kyiv, which he established for refugees in the previous war in 2014, he is determined to once again try and help those remaining.

The Rabbi adds: “In Anatevka, there are educational institutions, social services and housing, and we are able to take care of all of their needs. From there, some remain and join our community in Kyiv, and others we help find refuge in safer cities or countries.”

Working together with a group of courageous volunteers from the Jewish community to help with the rescue, Rabbi Azman has the use of rubber boats and SHERP vehicles that can travel on water in order to reach stranded people.

He continued: “The local synagogues and Jewish community centres were badly damaged. Unfortunately, until the flood waters recede, we won’t be able to assess how bad things are inside the Jewish buildings.

“These are crimes against humanity. It is up to you to help these people. I am not asking you to risk your life like we are, it is enough that you help us with donations from afar.” 

For more details, visit: https://www.officeofchiefrabbi.org/relieffund.