Among the captured arsenal are Draganov sniper rifles, SPG-9 launchers, Kornet anti-tank missiles, and the 9P163-1 portable launcher for the Kornet-E system.
Additionally, arms believed to be manufactured in Iran, such as 107-millimeter rockets, 81-millimeter mortars, PG-7 anti-tank rounds, and Toophan missile systems, were also seized.
These weapons, originally intended to target Israeli forces, could now be repurposed to aid Ukraine in its ongoing struggle against Russian aggression.
The potential transfer underscores Israel’s willingness to stand with Ukraine while simultaneously addressing broader geopolitical challenges.
Ukraine asks Israel to transfer Russian weapons seized from Hezbollah to Ukraine.
Around 60% to 70% of the weapons seized from Hezbollah by the IDF during its ground operation in southern Lebanon are Russian weapons that Ukrainian soldiers could use without needing any training.… pic.twitter.com/2y5oa6ilda
— Visegrád 24 (@visegrad24) January 22, 2025
The meeting between Haskel and Korniychuk also delved into the shared security threats posed by Iran and Russia.
Iran’s military support for groups like Hamas and Hezbollah, coupled with its alliance with Russia, has long been a concern for Israel.
This collaboration has extended to Ukraine’s battlefield, with Iran supplying Russia with Shahed drones, which have been deployed in aerial assaults against Ukrainian cities.
Israel and Ukraine both view Iran-Russia military cooperation as a direct threat to their national security.
Successful countermeasures, as emphasized by Ambassador Korniychuk, are therefore a shared interest.
The proposed transfer of weapons could be one such measure, reinforcing Ukraine’s defenses while symbolizing the deepening strategic partnership between the two countries.
Broader Bilateral Collaboration
Beyond military considerations, the meeting highlighted opportunities for strengthening bilateral relations in other areas. Haskel and Korniychuk discussed enhancing economic, consular, and humanitarian cooperation.
Both parties expressed interest in intensifying high-level contacts to further solidify ties. Such collaboration could pave the way for a more comprehensive partnership, extending beyond the immediate security concerns.
If Israel proceeds with the transfer of these weapons, it would send a strong signal about its stance on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its broader approach to regional and global security. The move could also draw criticism from Russia, which has previously warned against military support to Ukraine.
Nevertheless, Israel’s potential decision aligns with its efforts to counter Iran’s influence and address the threats posed by its partnership with Russia.
A Critical Juncture
The proposed transfer of seized Russian-made weapons from Israel to Ukraine highlights the growing alignment between the two nations in the face of shared adversaries. It also underscores the complexities of navigating international relations amidst ongoing conflicts and shifting alliances.
As Israel weighs this bold step, the potential outcomes could redefine its role in the broader geopolitical landscape while offering Ukraine much-needed support in its fight for sovereignty.
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