Dear John,

I want to share a compelling video with you and the rest of the ADL community.

Earlier this week, Natan Sharansky gave an important briefing on the dire crisis in Ukraine. He shared his insights with several hundred members of ADL’s National Commission and Regional Boards in an online event hosted by our International Affairs Committee.

Having met Russian leader Vladimir Putin many times, Sharansky brings invaluable expertise to his analysis of the invasion of Ukraine. His perspectives come from his unique background as a former Soviet refusenik, past Chair of the Jewish Agency, former Israeli government minister and current Board Chair of the Ukraine-based Babyn Yar Memorial Center.

In our conversation about the geopolitical and humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, Sharansky discussed what is motivating Putin to take such brutal and unwarranted action.

Sharansky, who spent time in Soviet jails as a political prisoner, compared Putin’s willingness to use force to a prisoner who is seen as powerful because he “is ready to use everything to cut your throat.”

In discussing what is necessary to end the crisis in Ukraine, Sharansky explained the actions the free world must take as quickly as possible. He called on Israel as a democratic nation to be clear in its support for Ukraine, despite concerns about coming out against Russia, which has influence in Syria and Iran.

We hope you find this timely briefing helpful in shedding light on this chaotic crisis and dispelling misinformation. If you’d like to donate, advocate or take other actions to help the people of Ukraine, you’ll find options recommended by ADL in the Ukraine Resource box below.

Regards,

Sharon Nazarian

SVP, International Affairs

ADL