**Tragedy Strikes: Five Ukrainian Citizens Killed in Iranian Missile Attack on Israel**
A devastating missile attack by Iran on Israel has resulted in the tragic loss of five Ukrainian citizens, including three children. The victims were killed when an Iranian missile struck a residential building in Bat Yam, a city located south of Tel Aviv. This shocking incident highlights the complex web of international relations and the risks faced by civilians in conflict zones.
According to Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry, the five Ukrainian citizens were among those who came under fire during the attack on June 14. The ministry is still gathering details and identifying the deceased. It’s reported that an estimated 23,000 Ukrainian citizens currently live in Israel, including 11,000 who fled since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
**Ukraine Supports Israel Against Iran**
The Ukrainian government has expressed its support for Israel against Iran, which is a major supplier of weapons to Russia. This move reflects the close ties between Ukraine and Israel, particularly given the significant number of Russian-speaking Israelis. Approximately 15% of Israel’s population, or roughly one million people, are Russian-speaking, including sizeable communities from across the former Soviet Union.
Israel has historically maintained relatively friendly ties with Russia, despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. However, the recent attack on Iran by Israel has drawn criticism from Russia, which labeled it as “unprovoked aggression.”
**US President Trump Weighs In**
In a surprising development, US President Donald Trump commented on the possibility of Russian President Vladimir Putin taking on a mediating role between Israel and Iran. When asked if he would be open to such a scenario, Trump replied, “Yeah, I would be open to it.” This statement highlights the complexities of international diplomacy and the willingness of world leaders to engage in dialogue.
**Commentary and Analysis**
The tragic loss of five Ukrainian citizens in the Iranian missile attack on Israel is a stark reminder of the risks faced by civilians in conflict zones. The incident also underscores the complex web of international relations, with multiple players involved in the conflict. Ukraine’s support for Israel against Iran reflects its own interests and security concerns.
As the world grapples with this crisis, it’s essential to consider the broader implications of such an attack. The involvement of major powers like Russia, the US, and Iran adds a layer of complexity to the situation. The potential for mediation by President Putin highlights the willingness of leaders to engage in dialogue, even in the face of adversity.
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For more on this story, please visit the Kyiv Independent website: [https://kyivindependent.com/five-ukrainians-dead-in-israel-after-iranian-missile-strike/](https://kyivindependent.com/five-ukrainians-dead-in-israel-after-iranian-missile-strike/) @ kyivindependent.com
