UMAN, Ukraine: Thousands of Hasidic Jewish pilgrims flocked to central Ukraine to celebrate the Jewish New Year on Sunday, defying international travel warnings as Russia prepares to crack down on Ukraine more forcefully.

Pilgrims made the long journey from Israel to the small town of Uman, the burial place of Nachman of Breslov, a Hasidic rabbi who died in 1810.

The streets of Uman were filled with men of all ages wearing traditional black coats and long curls. Some chanted prayers. Others screamed, cheered, and danced. Advertisements and directions in Hebrew littered the area.

Jewish believers come here every year to pray. The believers came here ignoring the threats of war.

The Israeli and US governments have also warned citizens not to travel this year.

Local official Ole Hanich said more than 35,000 pilgrims visited last year despite pandemic travel restrictions.