President Putin Sends Pesach Greetings to Russian Jews, Praises Community’s Efforts to Preserve Traditions

Moscow, Russia In a heartfelt gesture ahead of Pesach, Russian President Vladimir Putin extended warm greetings to the Jewish community of Russia, commending their dedication to preserving religious traditions and customs. The message, delivered through the Chief Rabbi of Russia, Rabbi Berel Lazar, shlit”a, highlights the community’s vibrant contributions to both Jewish life and Russian society as they prepare for the sacred chag.

In his letter, President Putin wrote, “To the Jews of Russia: I hereby congratulate you on the occasion of the holiday of Passover. This holiday, cherished by Jews worldwide, commemorates the great and pivotal event in the history of the Jewish people—the exodus from slavery to freedom.” He went on to express admiration for the community’s efforts, noting, “It is gratifying to see that the Jewish community in Russia is doing much to preserve the religious traditions and customs of its people, instilling in the younger generation a deep respect for the heritage of their ancestors.”

President Putin also acknowledged the active role of Russian Jews in public life, praising their contributions to patriotic, educational, and charitable initiatives. “The religious customs of the people, and the education of the younger generation to honor their cultural and spiritual heritage, are especially appreciated,” he wrote. “The participation of Russian Jews in our country’s public life is particularly valued, as is their impact on promoting enlightening programs and blessed charitable projects.” He concluded with wishes for good health and success in all their endeavors.

This year, the Russian Jewish community has seen a remarkable increase in Pesach engagement. A record number of matzah distributions and public Seders are planned, reflecting a growing desire among Jews to connect with their heritage. With Pesach beginning on motzei Shabbos, hundreds of Jews will gather for the main Seder in Moscow, a tradition led by Rabbi Berel Lazar, shlit”a, for nearly three decades. Thousands more will join public Seders across the capital, hosted by various Chabad houses under the direction of Rabbi Mordechai Weisberg, Director of Jewish Communities in Moscow.

The Shaarei Tzedek Jewish Charity Center has also reported significant efforts to support the needy during this Yom Tov season. Logistical preparations have ensured that the lonely and bedridden—whether at home or in hospitals—receive matzah, Yom Tov supplies, and other essentials. These efforts run parallel to the annual Kimcha DePischa operation, which provides relief to those feeling the financial pressures of the chag.

On erev Yom Tov, Rabbi Berel Lazar sent a letter to Jewish communities across Russia, reflecting on the deeper meaning of Pesach. “The importance of remembering yetzias Mitzrayim and maintaining emunah in Hashem at every moment cannot be overstated,” he wrote. He emphasized the symbolism of matzah, calling it the “bread of poverty” eaten in Mitzrayim, the “bread of faith” for those who followed Hashem without hesitation, the “bread of humility” in contrast to chametz, and the “bread of freedom” marking the redemption from slavery. “On Seder night, we break the matzah—a clear reminder to share with others,” he added.

Rabbi Lazar concluded with a powerful call to action: “All of this must not only be remembered—it must be learned and taught, preserved and done. We learn from the generation of Moshe Rabbeinu, who chose freely, and we teach the next generation, as the Torah instructs, ‘And you shall tell your son.’ Let the generations that follow know there is a true purpose in our lives, and that Hakadosh Baruch Hu will always help when we advance confidently toward this purpose. To preserve and do means to live by these laws, not just to recall them, but to be guided by them. This is my bracha to each of you, your loved ones, and our entire people this Pesach.”

In Moscow, the preparations for Pesach included the traditional sale and burning of chametz, led by Rabbi Lazar in the courtyards of the Marina Roscha shul, the central synagogue of the city. These moments, captured by photographer Levi Nazarov, reflect the community’s commitment to halacha and unity as they usher in the chag of freedom.

As Russian Jews gather for Pesach, President Putin’s words and the community’s efforts serve as a reminder of the enduring strength of Jewish tradition, even in the largest country in the world, where Jews can live and worship freely, their neshamos awakened to the beauty of their heritage.