A detailed interview with noted publicist Vitaliy Portnikov was hosted by Serhiy Sternenko. The main topic was Russia's renewed attacks on Ukraine's energy infrastructure. According to Portnikov, these strikes aim to leave Ukrainians without light and heat in the winter. However, historical experience shows that such bombings do not force people to submit but only strengthen their unity and solidarity with their own country.
Portnikov explains that strikes targeting energy facilities to demoralize or drive migration have limited effect: the Russian army cannot force Ukrainians to surrender in this way. Conversely, attacks on military industry or energy providing for defense enterprises may carry military benefit.
The guest discussed a collective Ukrainian essay collection that reflects on the first months and years of war, and noted the role such projects play in sustaining morale. Throughout the broadcast, the host called for supporting Ukraine's Armed Forces and donating for drones for the front lines.
Regarding potential retaliatory strikes on Russian energy, Portnikov stressed that Ukraine's primary task should be to target Russia's war industry, not take purely electoral or psychological steps.
The interview also addressed Russian policy toward Ukraine since 1991, the inevitability of war due to Russia's imperial ambitions, and Ukraine's missed window of opportunity for Euro-Atlantic integration. The events and consequences of the Euromaidan were analyzed: Portnikov argues the revolution prevented Ukraine drifting into the Belarusian scenario and loss of sovereignty.
The probability of Russia's collapse and the formation of a new geopolitical reality as a consequence of the war were discussed as well. Portnikov notes that current Russian policy is leading to loss of influence over former republics and enables Ukraine to gradually join the Western world.
In conclusion, the expert calls on Ukrainians to stay resilient, strengthen national identity, realize the seriousness of the challenges faced, and to support both the Armed Forces and journalism, which must stand by people in the most difficult moments.
