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Tensions are mounting around the Jewish community in Kryvyi Rih (Krivoy Rog), Ukraine—President Volodymyr Zelensky’s hometown—after a Molotov cocktail was thrown at the city’s synagogue on the final night of Passover. The attack, which caused no injuries due to recent security upgrades, came just days after a separate antisemitic incident in which a community-owned vehicle was vandalized, leading local leaders to suspect a coordinated campaign.
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A Molotov cocktail was thrown at a synagogue in Kryvyi Rih
Community members believe the two incidents are linked and have demanded immediate reinforcement of local security. Ukrainian police have launched an investigation, while the city’s rabbi, Liron Edry, warned: “We cannot rule out a wave of coordinated actions against Jews.”
The first incident occurred early last week, when the tires of a vehicle bearing Jewish symbols were slashed. Unknown individuals poured paint on the body of the vehicle and defaced the Jewish symbols. "This was an act intended to harm us as a Jewish community," said Edry, the city's rabbi and Chabad emissary.
The second, more serious incident occurred late Saturday night, when unidentified individuals hurled Molotov cocktails at the synagogue. Thanks to recent fortifications—including reinforced windows, security cameras and alarm systems—the firebombs failed to penetrate the building. “The protection we installed in recent months prevented a major fire,” Edry said.
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He noted that the method of the attack matched a recent attack on a synagogue in Mykolaiv, suggesting a broader trend. While expressing appreciation for the authorities' initial response, the rabbi stressed it was not sufficient. “Police and local officials responded quickly and promised to investigate and apprehend those responsible,” he said.
Eliya Goldberg, Ukraine security chief for Chabad’s global CWA security network, credited preemptive measures—supported by the Jewish Agency’s security fund—for preventing injury and major damage. “We’re continuing to work with the community to ensure their safety,” he said.
Despite the threats, the Chabad community in Kryvyi Rih remains undeterred. “We won’t let fear stop us,” Edry declared. “Light will overcome the darkness.”