More than 31,000 Chassidim have already arrived in Ukraine ahead of Rosh Hashanah, as tens of thousands of mispallelim make their way to Uman to daven at the kever of Rabbeinu Nachman of Breslov.

According to Andriy Demchenko, a spokesman for Ukraine’s State Border Guard Service, the largest number of arrivals was recorded over the past three days. Approximately 13,700 Chassidim entered Ukraine on Wednesday, following 11,600 arrivals on Monday and Tuesday.

The mass arrival began in late August, with several hundred or several dozen pilgrims entering each day. Ukrainian authorities clarified that the figures only include organized groups identified as traveling to Uman. Those traveling independently, or whose destination could not be confirmed, may not be included.

The main entry routes have also shifted. While many Chassidim previously entered through Moldova, most are now arriving via the borders with Poland and Romania.

Photos showing long lines at the Poland-Ukraine border, particularly near the Medyka-Shehyni crossing, circulated online. However, Demchenko said the lines can disappear quickly after an organized group passes through, before another busload of pilgrims arrives.

“If an organized group is brought to the border by bus, gets off and joins the line at the pedestrian crossing, a photo can show enormous lines,” he explained. “But that line will disappear relatively quickly, until the next bus brings another similar group of Chassidim.”

No unusual incidents related to the arrival of the pilgrims have been reported. However, Ukrainian authorities said that 13 Chassidim were denied entry for various reasons.

Officials explained that as foreign citizens, the pilgrims must meet Ukraine’s legal entry requirements. Those who do not meet the necessary criteria may be denied entry into the country.

Ukraine is expecting approximately 40,000 pilgrims to arrive in Uman for Rosh Hashanah, though a more accurate figure will only be available after all the travelers arrive.

The Breslov Union in Uman expressed satisfaction with the numbers, saying that the extensive preparations and coordination led by Rabbi Nosson Ben-Nun have helped ensure the smooth arrival of the thousands of pilgrims.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)