In Ukraine, cultural forces aim to build morale with music

In the Lukianivka district of Kyiv, near a theater repeatedly targeted by Russian attacks, Olha Rukavisjnikova, a 27-year-old violinist, conductor, and soldier, embodies Ukraine's cultural forces. This initiative, established in 2022, comprises conscripted cultural workers tasked with continuing their creative endeavors as part of the nation's defense strategy.

Just days before an interview, a missile struck near the historic theater, shattering windows and damaging its facade. Despite such disruptions, Rukavisjnikova emphasizes the power of music. "I believe live music can increase support for Ukraine," she stated. "Most people react emotionally when I play, and that applies abroad too. Sometimes I meet people afterward and tell my story. I think it gives many a deeper understanding of Russian aggression and what we are going through."

Rukavisjnikova's international performances, including at the Cannes Film Festival and Carnegie Hall, highlight the strategic importance of cultural outreach. The cultural forces aim to provide solace and a moment of distraction through art for Ukrainian soldiers and citizens. Simultaneously, they document the war and resistance, reinforcing a national identity that stands in contrast to the aggressor's narrative.

Artist Stanislav Zjalobniuk, who creates paintings depicting scenes of war and resilience, sees culture as a form of resistance. "Culture can definitely also be a weapon," he remarked, standing in the cultural forces' studio. His work, like a painting of a gray tank against a pink background with a newly bloomed flower, symbolizes the ongoing struggle and hope.

This cultural engagement is viewed as a logical component of Ukraine's total defense, aligning with Carl von Clausewitz's 200-year-old assertion that a nation's resilience depends on both physical capacity and motivation. The international branch of these forces actively seeks collaborations and performances abroad, recognizing that "soft power" is as vital as military strength in shaping global perception.