In a live broadcast on Radio UA Chicago, journalist, writer and blogger Ostap Drozdov shared his analysis of recent developments, particularly the scandal involving Ukrainian refugees who attended the Russian-language concert of Belarusian rapper Max Korzh in Warsaw. Afterwards, about 57 people are set to be deported. Drozdov emphasized that such incidents may build additional societal barriers between Ukraine and Europe, especially in Poland, which has long discussed tightening its visa policy for Ukrainians. According to the expert, such public scandals shape the perception of Ukraine and Ukrainians in European societies.
He stressed that through numerous scandals and everyday stories in various countries, a more prejudiced attitude towards Ukrainians is developing, influencing public support and, in turn, impacting governments' geopolitical decisions.
The conversation then moved to expectations surrounding the upcoming meeting between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin, scheduled to take place in Anchorage, Alaska. U.S. officials stated that the meeting is not intended as a concession to the Kremlin and will be introductory in nature. The participation of Volodymyr Zelensky at this meeting is not expected, as it is organized as a bilateral event.
Drozdov also drew attention to the broader context: immediately prior to the meeting, the U.S. and the EU signed a trade agreement involving large-scale energy exports from the United States to Europe, further limiting Russia's role. All of this lays the groundwork for a new world order, in which Ukraine remains a key but not the only issue among many global challenges.
Drozdov warned that any return of Russia to "equal player" status on the world stage could have tectonic consequences. He noted that despite Ukraine’s continued significance, the negotiations among leaders will be dominated by broader geopolitical and economic interests.
The interview concluded with a call for responsible behavior from Ukrainians abroad, as their actions influence the image of the country and impact international support.
