Israeli Defense Minister Gantz reiterated on the 19th local time that out of various practical considerations, Israel will continue to provide humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, but will not provide military equipment. The day before Gantz’s remarks, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Kuleba called on Israel to immediately provide Ukraine with air defense systems. Russia has previously warned that if Israel sends weapons to Ukraine, it will “destroy Russia-Israel relations”.
Ukraine has recently repeatedly asked Israel to provide Ukraine with military equipment. According to reports, Israeli Prime Minister Lapid is scheduled to hold talks with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Kuleba on the 20th, but a senior Israeli security official said the dialogue may not change Israel’s position.