Breslov Hasid Detained in Ukraine After Uman Pilgrimage for Military Medical Service
A record 51,000 Breslov Hasidim visited Uman for Rosh Hashanah despite the Ukraine war. Israeli-Ukrainian dual citizen Jonathan Moshe Karlinsky was detained due to his past military and medical background.
A record number of Breslov Hasidim traveled to Uman for Rosh Hashanah this year, despite the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia and persistent security warnings. According to data published in Ukraine, approximately 51,000 people arrived in the city during the holiday, compared to nearly 40,000 last year. This sharp increase occurred despite strict security limitations, checkpoints, and heightened inspections surrounding the pilgrimage site of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov.
Ukraine Mobilization and Wartime Realities
This influx takes place against the backdrop of Ukraine's severe manpower shortage as it continues extensive military mobilization under martial law. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense clarifies that male citizens aged 25 to 60 who are fit for service and not eligible for deferment or exemption are generally subject to conscription. The general mobilization, declared following the Russian invasion in 2022, was extended again over the summer and remains in active effect.
Detention of a Breslov Hasid
Amidst this complex reality, 49-year-old Jonathan Moshe Karlinsky, a Breslov Hasid and resident of Beitar Illit, experienced an unusual incident on his return trip from Uman. Karlinsky was detained at the border crossing after the holiday and transferred to a military facility near Odessa. According to the Federation of Jewish Communities of Ukraine, authorities decided not to release him, and he is expected to be assigned in the coming days to a medical role within a military unit in Kharkiv.
"Authorities decided not to release him due to his past military service and medical background, though he is expected to serve in a medical capacity rather than combat units," stated representatives of the Jewish community federation.
Background and Religious Convictions
The decision stems from Karlinsky's background. Before immigrating to Israel and joining the Breslov Hasidism, he served in the Ukrainian military and trained as a physician. Ukrainian authorities determined that his citizenship, military past, and medical expertise make him highly valuable as the army faces shortages of medical personnel. Karlinsky noted that he is being treated respectfully, though his religious beliefs strictly prohibit him from handling weapons.
