Why Pope Francis is amplifying cornerstone myth of Moscow's ideology

Probably as a way to "balance" his meeting with Metropolitan Epiphany, the Primate of the OCU, he repeated the idea that Ukrainians and Russians are either brothers or cousins.

However, this was not in the Christian sense, where all are considered brothers and sisters.

It seems that during his studies years ago, he came across the notion that Ukrainians and Russians are "brotherly peoples from a common cradle."

Yet, social sciences — and now even genetic research — have long debunked this myth.

But it’s more than a myth. It’s one of the foundational pillars of Moscow's ideology.

The Ukrainian state must respond appropriately. With seriousness and thoroughness.

That means properly funding Ukrainian science — not just through the budget but also by removing absurd restrictions on attracting external funds for education and research.

It also means adequately supporting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to promote the Ukrainian narrative abroad.

And it means adding Ukraine-centric topics to key government KPI reports, ensuring Ukraine's priorities are heard in global political centers.

The ratification of the EU Association Agreement, visa-free travel, and the Tomos showed how this can be done. 

Back then, there was also a Russian invasion, a lack of funds, and skepticism from Ukraine's partners (at the beginning). But the difference was leadership professionalism.

That’s what we’re missing now.

And the need is critical.

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About the author. Rostyslav Pavlenko, Ukrainian politician, political scientist, teacher. People's Deputy of Ukraine of the 9th convocation

The editorial staff does not always share the opinions expressed by the blog authors.