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NPR's Book of the Day

'War and Punishment' chronicles the history of Russian oppression of Ukraine

Aug 21, 2023
Journalist Mikhail Zygar discusses his new book 'War and Punishment' which debunks historical myths in Russia, exposing their role in the invasion of Ukraine. The speaker explores the moral obligation to take blame for Russian crimes, discusses the rise of fascism, and the impending end of Putin's regime.
07:33

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Quick takeaways

  • Journalist Mikhail Zygar aims to debunk the historical myths that Russians are taught about their own country, including the idea that Russians and Ukrainians are the same people and the notion that Ukraine did not exist before Lenin.
  • Recognizing and taking responsibility for the crimes committed by the Russian Empire, including their impact on Ukrainian history, is crucial in understanding the current war and potential collapse of Russian exceptionalism and imperialism.

Deep dives

Debunking Russian Historical Myths

In the podcast episode, journalist Mikhail Zegar discusses his new book 'War and Punishment,' which aims to debunk the historical myths that Russians are taught about their own country. Zegar highlights the significance of these myths in the current context, as they have been used to build support for the invasion of Ukraine. He identifies myths such as the idea that Russians and Ukrainians are the same people and the notion that Ukraine did not exist before Lenin. Zegar emphasizes the need to challenge these imperialist historical narratives and start anew.

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