Today, the editorial team of Time Ukraine Israel had the honor of visiting Kyiv Pechersk Lavra, where an important project for the rehabilitation of soldiers is already in operation. The charitable organization “Foundation of Ukraine 1991” together with the charitable fund “Ukrainian Lavra” have launched the “Spiritual Revival through Culture” program, aimed at providing psychological assistance to our defenders.
The project is implemented on the grounds of the National Preserve “Kyiv Pechersk Lavra,” which adds special weight and significance to it. Kyiv Pechersk Lavra is not only a historical site but also a symbol of Ukraine’s spiritual revival. Holding such a program here helps create an atmosphere of tranquility and support necessary for restoring the psychological health of soldiers.
The “Spiritual Revival through Culture” program includes various activities aimed at spiritual enrichment and psychological support for soldiers. These include cultural events and spiritual practices that help our defenders find inner balance and prepare for a full life after combat operations.
Today’s distinguished guest was Harry Tabakh (Gary Yuri Tabakh), born in February 1962, a retired US Navy captain. Tabakh is known for being the first Soviet citizen to receive an officer’s commission in the United States Armed Forces. He has served as an advisor to the US ambassador and a special representative of the president in the former Soviet Union. Tabakh held various positions in NATO missions and received recognition for his expertise in military affairs, defense reduction strategy, national security issues, and counterterrorism.
After graduating from Temple University, he was commissioned as an ensign in the US Navy. From 1985 to 1991, he worked as a pharmacist in naval hospitals. In 1991, Tabakh became a special representative of the president, as well as an aide and advisor to the US ambassador in the former USSR countries. Until 1994, he worked at the US Embassy in Moscow, acting as a liaison between the US government and the governments of the former Soviet Union. He represented US government interests, advised the US ambassador on policy and strategy, and provided analysis and recommendations on political, economic, and security events in the region.
In 1994, he joined the Commission on Prisoners of War—Missing in Action, actively searching for American POWs and militiamen in the former Soviet Union. Additionally, he served as a course director at USUHS. In 1997, he held the position of head of the Military Information Office (MIO) in the United Nations Observer Mission in Georgia (UNOMIG), leading hostage negotiation teams.
From 1998 to 2000, Tabakh served as head of the Arms Control Implementation Division at the US Embassy in Almaty, Kazakhstan. He later served as a naval officer in the defense cooperation office at the US Embassy in Warsaw, Poland, overseeing arms deliveries to Poland during its transition to NATO standards. He also served as a program manager in the Threat Reduction Office at the US Embassy in Moscow.
From 2006 to 2008, Tabakh held the position of Deputy Director of the NATO Center of Excellence for Defense Against Terrorism in Ankara, Turkey. He was responsible for leading a staff of 90 international military personnel from seven NATO countries. From 2008 to 2011, he was the Chief of Staff of the NATO Liaison Military Mission, coordinating contacts with the Russian Ministry of Defense in Moscow.
Tabakh has received military awards for his service, including the Legion of Merit, one of the highest military honors in the US. He retired from the US Navy in 2011 and now serves as the CEO of Fort Seal.
Harry Tabakh is a public friend of Ukraine and a public opponent of the current US administration.
During our meeting, we heard many words of support for Ukrainian soldiers from Harry Tabakh, as well as his personal story and accounts of his family. Naturally, today’s news about the attempted assassination of Donald Trump did not leave us indifferent.
“The bullet that could have made Trump a corpse will make him a president.”
Harry shared shocking details about how Trump turned his head just in time, and the sniper hit him in the ear but was neutralized. Despite this, Trump continued to speak to people and came out to them with words that the interests of the US should be defended even if he is killed. Donald Trump was taken to the hospital and lost a lot of blood.
Harry also commented that Trump is often portrayed in the wrong light in Ukraine. He emphasized that Trump will deal with all terrorists, and if Putin does not sign the necessary documents, Trump will provide Zelensky with so many weapons that Russia will drown in blood if it does not comply with his terms. He also stressed the importance of supporting Israel, noting that Trump is the future for Israel and Ukraine, and security must come first. In his opinion, the media are pursuing the wrong policy regarding Trump. He also noted that the US is scrapping more weapons than it is supplying to Ukraine and expressed dissatisfaction that Biden is helping Ukraine only in words, asking:
“Well, where are the F-16s already in the state?”
At this point, we stopped discussing politics.
We had a dialogue with Harry and the military, the details of which I cannot disclose at the moment, but I will definitely share when the time comes because this is a military matter and it is currently impossible.
Harry also mentioned that a Russian online casino gang is operating in Ukraine, where our soldiers spend their money. He emphasized that few people in the country are dealing with this issue and called on psychologists to work on this problem.
We agreed on further personal dialogue in the near future, and today is dedicated to our defenders and all those who help them. This meeting was a testament to the importance of not only providing material support to the military but also offering them spiritual and psychological support. Together, we can do more for those who protect our country.
Thank you all to the sky!
Time Ukraine Israel
