45,000 Breslov Hasidim prepare for wartime Rosh Hashanah pilgrimage to Uman

With Rosh Hashanah approaching in three weeks, approximately 45,000 Breslov Hasidim are preparing to travel to Uman, Ukraine, to visit the grave of Rabbi Nachman. This is expected to be the largest number of pilgrims to reach the city since the war in Ukraine began, with an estimated 35,000 traveling from Israel.

Because direct flights to Ukraine are impossible, pilgrims must travel through six neighboring countries: Moldova, Romania, Bulgaria, Slovakia, Hungary, and Poland. This complex journey requires extensive international coordination.

To manage the flow, the Israel Police is deploying over 40 officers to border crossings in Ukraine and Romania, as well as to Uman itself. Their presence is intended to reduce friction with local authorities and manage potential incidents. In previous years, Israeli police presence has successfully mediated disputes and prevented minor incidents from escalating into international issues.

In addition to police, dozens of diplomats from the Israeli Foreign Ministry will be stationed at various airports to assist the travelers. The cost to Israel for supporting this pilgrimage is expected to reach hundreds of thousands of shekels.

Ukrainian authorities are also facilitating the arrival of the pilgrims. The Breslov Union in Uman has reached an agreement with the local municipality to reduce the tourist tax for those who pay in advance. Measures have also been implemented to prevent overcrowding near Rabbi Nachman’s grave. Rabbi Natan Ben Nun, chairman of the Breslov Union, has urged all pilgrims to strictly follow the instructions of local authorities and observe curfew hours.