A Molotov cocktail attack on a synagogue in Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine, on Saturday night has intensified concerns over a surge in antisemitic incidents across the country. This marks the second antisemitic attack in the city within a week, following the vandalism of a Jewish community vehicle, reports The Jerusalem Post.
Thanks to recently installed security measures—including shatter-resistant windows and a rapid-response alarm system—the firebomb failed to breach the building, averting what could have been a deadly attack during the Passover holiday. “This was a direct attack on the Jewish community,” said Rabbi Liron Edri, the city’s Chabad emissary. “Thankfully, the reinforced windows held up… But the message was loud and clear.”
The synagogue’s security infrastructure was funded by Chabad World Assistance and supported by the Jewish Agency’s Security Fund. “The shielding we installed saved lives,” confirmed Elia Goldberg, CWA’s Ukraine coordinator. “It’s a reminder that preemptive protection is not just important, it’s essential.”
Authorities launched an investigation immediately following the attack, with police vowing to track down those responsible. Rabbi Edri praised their response, saying, “The police arrived immediately and took the matter seriously.”
Just days earlier, another disturbing incident occurred: vandals defaced a community vehicle adorned with Jewish symbols, slashed its tyres, and poured chemicals on its surface. “There was nothing random about it,” said Edri, who warned of a broader trend. “We’re starting to fear that this may not be isolated… there seems to be a growing pattern of coordinated attempts to intimidate and harm Jewish communities in Eastern Europe.”
The increase in attacks comes amid political instability and rising nationalist rhetoric spurred by the ongoing war with Russia. In Mykolaiv, a similar synagogue attack was recently reported, suggesting a possible wave of antisemitic violence in the region.
Despite the growing threats, the Jewish community in Kryvyi Rih remains determined. “We won’t be intimidated,” said Edri. “Light will overcome darkness. We will keep our doors open, and our community will continue to gather and pray.”
This latest attack underlines the urgent need for robust protections for Jewish institutions and a renewed commitment to confronting antisemitism across Europe.
Photo credit: Shutterstock
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