Russian and Ukrainian Friends Join the IDF Together

Two young men from opposite sides of the Russia-Ukraine conflict have forged a powerful bond in Israel, where they are now enlisting together in the IDF's 50th battalion of the Nahal Brigade. Alexei Khumin, 20, originally from Russia, and Anton Friedman, 19, from Ukraine, have become best friends despite their contrasting backgrounds, united by a shared love for music and a deep commitment to Israel.

Anton, who immigrated to Israel alone in 2019, was driven by Zionism and the escalating war in Ukraine to spend his high school years in the Jewish state. Alexei, who moved to Israel at 15 with his mother and sister, found in Anton a kindred spirit. Their friendship blossomed quickly, strengthened by their common interests and their desire to contribute to their adopted country.

The two young men are part of a significant wave of immigration to Israel following the outbreak of war between Russia and Ukraine. Since February 2022, approximately 84,000 Russians and 20,000 Ukrainians have made Aliyah, with Russians accounting for about 70% of new immigrants each year, according to Israel’s Ministry of Aliyah and Integration.

Despite coming from nations currently at war, Alexei and Anton say they never struggled to find common ground. “We play together, we sing together,” Alexei shared, highlighting the depth of their bond.

Their decision to enlist in the IDF, particularly in a combat unit, was shaped by their experiences and a strong sense of duty. Initially, Alexei was hesitant about serving in a combat role, having witnessed the toll of war in his home country. However, a year of voluntary service with the Tarbut movement, where he was immersed in Israeli culture, changed his perspective. The events of October 7 further solidified his resolve, making him realize the critical importance of combat soldiers in protecting Israel.

Anton, too, was initially fearful of combat. While he considered serving in the Ukrainian army, his connection to the Nahal Brigade deepened during his volunteer year with Tarbut. His guide, Dima, a reserve commander in the 50th Battalion, inspired him to follow in his footsteps.

Both Alexei and Anton faced challenges in convincing their families of their decision to serve in combat roles, especially given the conflicts they had left behind. Anton, an only child, required parental consent to serve in a combat unit, a legal requirement in Israel for only children. After some hesitation, his parents eventually recognized the importance of his choice.

Their experiences with antisemitism varied significantly. Anton, who grew up in a small town in Ukraine, did not encounter much antisemitism and felt comfortable with his Jewish identity. In contrast, Alexei was acutely aware of the antisemitism in Russia, which has been exacerbated by the ongoing wars.

Despite their different backgrounds and experiences, Alexei and Anton are united in their desire to protect Israel, the country they have chosen as their own. As they prepare to serve in the IDF, they are part of a new generation of soldiers taking up the mantle from those who have defended Israel, especially since the events of October 7.

Their story is a testament to the power of friendship and shared purpose, transcending national divides and uniting them in their commitment to Israel.

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