The treacherous winter weather continues in Ukraine, and so do the relentless missile attacks, blackouts, and rising costs. Beginning January 1, 2026, the government will raise excise taxes on fuel, a move that is predicted to trigger new wave economic challenges. The tax on gasoline will rise from €271.7 to €300.8 per 1,000 liters; the diesel tax will climb from €215.7 to €253.8; and automotive gas will be taxed at €198, up from €173.
For the Ukrainian people, the changes will be devastating, as prices are expected to soar for transportation and food. Daily power outages exacerbate the problem, causing some experts to predict costs for dairy and meat products to jump by as much as 30%. This new reality combined with the nightly explosions and extended blackouts, is pushing many families to the brink.
Our recent nationwide emergency aid campaign has been essential to the survival of thousands of people. We distributed food, blankets, heating kits, and medicine. Special Hanukkah items were included as well, bringing rays of light to lives filled with darkness. The many Hanukkah celebrations we hosted in cities around the country reminded people they are not alone and not forgotten.
We pray that long before next Hanukkah, peace will have arrived in Ukraine, and that we will be celebrate the rebuilding of lives and communities. Together we save lives and restore hope.
