Ukrainian historian acknowledged Putin's 'merit' to the Ukrainian people.

Historian and people's deputy Volodymyr Vyatrovych believes that Russia's aggression, initiated by Putin, served to unite Ukrainian society. In the war, reconciliation occurred between different historical groups, including between participants of the UPA and the Red Army.

“This reconciliation has already happened - at the level of grandchildren. The new generations no longer pay attention to where their grandfathers were - whether in the Red Army or the UPA,” emphasized Vyatrovych.

New Perspective

According to the historian, the Russian-Ukrainian war shifts attention from World War II, which was a key element of Russian propaganda.

“Putin himself created the conditions that helped unite Ukrainian society. The modern war is more dramatic and unites us, unlike past conflicts,” added the historian.

Vyatrovych stressed the danger of romanticizing individuals who collaborated with the NKVD. He asserts that the NKVD was a tool of repression, not an army, and comparing it to the Red Army is unfair.

The historian urged citizens to be cautious with myth-making regarding the war, as there are already sufficient examples of true heroism that will enter history without fakes or distortions.

Analysis

During the interview, the historian raised important questions about the unity of Ukrainian society during the war and the need for a proper perception of historical facts to build the future of the country.