Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky makes a statement in Kyiv, Ukraine, February 25, 2022. Ukrainian Presidential Press Service/Handout via REUTERS

i24 News – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky asked Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett to intercede on behalf of Ukraine with Russian President Vladimir Putin and halt the Russian invasion, Israel’s Kan broadcaster reported on Friday.

According to an official Israeli statement Friday, the two leaders discussed the situation in Ukraine, and particularly the fighting around the capital Kyiv.

The Israeli Prime Minister “offered Israel’s assistance with any humanitarian aid needed and updated President Zelensky on the steps already taken in this regard,” his office said.

“Prime Minister Bennett reiterated his hope for a speedy end to the fighting, and said that he stands by the people of Ukraine in these difficult days,” it continued.

Ukraine’s ambassador to Israel later confirmed to The New York Times that the request for Israeli mediation was made on the call.

“We do believe that Israel is the only democratic state in the world that has great relations with both Ukraine and Russia,” said Ukraine’s ambassador to Israel Yevgen Korniychuk of the request, according to the outlet.

“They didn’t say no,” he said. “They are trying to figure out where they are in this chess play.”

An Israeli official, speaking anonymously, also confirmed that Zelensky’s request was made.