(June 27, 2023 / JNS) Ukraine’s ambassador to Israel has been summoned to the Foreign Ministry after accusing Jerusalem of having a pro-Russian stance.

The dressing down is scheduled for July 3. Ambassador Yevgen Korniychuk will meet with Aliza Ben-Nun, the head of the ministry’s Strategic Affairs Directorate.

“The Israeli government continues to act and promote cooperation as agreed between the countries. The behavior of the ambassador does not help,” the ministry said in a statement on Tuesday confirming the meeting.

The Ukrainian embassy in Tel Aviv on Sunday said that Israel’s government “has opted for a path of close cooperation with the Russian Federation.”

U.S. says Israel blocking Iron Dome transfer to Ukraine

Two U.S. senators last Friday sent a letter to the Senate Armed Services Committee accusing Israel of blocking the transfer of two Iron Dome batteries to Ukraine to assist Kyiv in fending off Russian aerial attacks.

“We can save more Ukrainian lives today if we transfer those batteries. However, due to serious concerns, the Government of Israel has blocked the United States from transferring these batteries,” wrote Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham and Democratic Sen. Chris Van Hollen.

Israel developed Iron Dome and initially funded it. While subsequent rounds of funding were provided by the United States, Israel has veto power over any foreign transfers/sales.