Ukraine to decide soon on opening embassy in Jerusalem

Ukrainian Ambassador to Israel Yevhen Korniychuk said Dec. 16 that his country is in final discussions on the decision to open a branch of its embassy in Jerusalem. Speaking at a two-day event marking 30 years of diplomatic relations between the two countries, Korniychuk said, “My country recognizes the one and only capital of Israel, and that is Jerusalem.”

The announcement came after Jerusalem Affairs and Housing Minister Ze’ev Elkin, who was born in Ukraine, addressed the same event. Elkin expressed his hope that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky would open an embassy branch in Jerusalem.

Later on, the Ukrainian envoy clarified that no decision has been made yet. He had discussed the issue with Zelensky last October and now estimates that a final decision is a matter of months. “As soon as I get permission, I will do it immediately,” said Korniychuk.

He noted that the branch, which would be dedicated to promoting economic and technological cooperation, could open next year, if and when Zelensky pays an official visit to Israel. Still, Zelensky has preconditions concerning the security and defense relationship between the countries.