Ukraine’s Unyielding Spirit: A Century-Long Fight for Freedom and Identity

February 24, 2022, marks a pivotal moment in history as Russia’s most brutal war against Ukraine erupted. Yet, this conflict neither began on that day nor in 2014. Its roots stretch back centuries—through the fall of Kyivan Rus, the Cossack period, the liberation efforts of the Ukrainian People’s Republic, and the steadfast defiance of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army. For generations, Muscovites have sought to destroy the Ukrainian nation. They outlawed our language, dismantled our church, and attempted to erase our culture. They even stole our traditions, presenting them as their own. Despite enduring massacres, famines, and oppression, Ukrainians never bowed to their will. With independence, Ukraine has been reclaiming its stolen cultural, artistic, and historical legacy. This restoration of heritage is the real reason behind this war. For if Ukraine fully reclaims its identity, Muscovy will be left with little more than bast shoes and a balalaika. This is a battle for survival—a fight for existence itself. And in this war, there will be only one winner: Ukraine!