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Israel Proposes Transferring Seized Russian Weapons, Including Kornet Missiles, to Ukraine

Jan 21, 2025, 10:32 PM

Israel's Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel has proposed transferring Russian-made weapons seized by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) in Lebanon to Ukraine. The proposal was discussed during a January 21 meeting with Ukraine's Ambassador to Israel, Yevhen Korniychuk, who expressed gratitude for the initiative and hope for its approval. The weapons, reportedly captured from Hezbollah during Israeli military operations in southern Lebanon, include advanced Russian-made systems such as Kornet anti-tank guided missiles. This move, if implemented, would mark a shift in Israel's policy regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, as Israel has previously maintained a neutral stance. The proposal highlights shared security concerns, including military cooperation between Iran and Russia, which both Israel and Ukraine view as a threat. Israeli officials clarified that the proposal originated as a private initiative by Haskel before her appointment as Deputy Foreign Minister and does not yet reflect official government policy. The potential transfer could strain Israel's diplomatic ties with Russia, which has historically supported Hezbollah and Iran.