Putin speaks Hebrew in Russian-occupied Crimea
03/19/2019
According to TASS , at a meeting between Putin and representatives of the public of Crimea and Sevastopol, the president was told about the completion of the construction of a synagogue on the site where Jews were shot during the Great Patriotic War. Putin noted that he had already invited Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to the opening of the Cathedral Mosque in Crimea. “Let's invite another Israeli prime minister, let him come to the opening of the synagogue,” the Russian leader said.
Responding to the remark that there had been a slight delay in the construction of the synagogue due to financial problems, Putin joked: “Jews have financial problems! This is only possible in Crimea!”. And then he switched to Hebrew: “Toda slave,” which means “thank you very much,” Putin ironically remarked.
In general, he said that the Jewish community in Russia makes a huge contribution to the development of the country. “I hope that Jews will play the same positive role in Crimea,” the president expressed hope.