

How Misinformation Led to the Russian Invasion of Ukraine
Sep 8, 2023
Mikhail Zygar, a prominent Russian dissident journalist and author, discusses the propaganda fueling Russia's invasion of Ukraine, sharing insights from his book 'War and Punishment.' He reveals how historical myths have distorted perceptions, leading Putin to underestimate Zelensky's rise. Alongside Edward Lucas, a columnist and national security expert, they dissect the political implications of language and identity in shaping contemporary Ukrainian nationalism. Their compelling analysis highlights the urgent need to debunk enduring imperial narratives and confront cultural legacies.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Apology to Nadia
- Mikhail Zygar wrote an apology to his friend Nadia who stopped talking to him.
- She considered him an imperialist, prompting Zygar's book attacking Russian imperialism.
Complicity of Writers
- Russian writers and historians facilitated the war through 350 years of rhetoric.
- Their words sowed the seeds of Russian fascism and deadly imperialistic ideas.
Kievan Rus Dispute
- Putin believes Kievan Rus is profoundly Russian, and Ukrainians appropriated it.
- Ukrainians believe Rus is unrelated to Russia, with Ukraine being its true heir.