Intelligence Squared Ukrainians on the War in Ukraine, with Kira Rudyk, Michael Bociurkiw and Olha Poliukhovych
May 9, 2022
In a powerful conversation, Ukrainian voices Kira Rudyk, a Member of Parliament and political leader, Michael Bociurkiw, a geopolitical analyst, and Olha Poliukhovych, a cultural educator, explore the war's impact on national identity and unity. They discuss urgent needs for Western support and the challenges of negotiating with Russia, scrutinizing past failures and the humanitarian toll. The guests also reflect on the emotional resilience of Ukrainians, the threat of nuclear dangers, and the importance of safeguarding future generations amid ongoing conflict.
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Life in Kyiv During War
- Kira Rudik has remained in Kyiv since the war began, only leaving for one day to visit Bucha and Hostomel.
- She described her new reality of taping windows for protection and shared a story about a journalist friend injured by shattered glass from a nearby missile strike.
Exceeding Expectations and Childhood Trauma
- Kira Rudik expresses surprise that the war has lasted 71 days, exceeding expectations.
- She laments the trauma inflicted on Ukrainian children, who now understand war's realities like hiding during air raids and the concept of being a refugee.
From Literature to Reality
- Olha Poliukhovych, a literary critic, draws parallels between her research on World War II literature and her current experience of war.
- She highlights the resilience of her students, who continue learning online despite the war and pandemic.