Ukraine removes Russian language's protected status as EU talks open

Ukraine is taking a significant step to assert its linguistic independence by removing the Russian language's protected status, a move President Volodymyr Zelensky enacted into law. This decision aims to "protect the Ukrainian linguistic space" and marks a profound rupture with Russia, as the language of an aggressor nation should not benefit from protections designed for indigenous languages.

Ruslan Stefanchuk, the speaker of Ukraine's parliament, emphasized that this law is a powerful signal, particularly as it follows the European Union's official opening of accession negotiations with Ukraine. He stated that the language of an aggressor state cannot utilize protection tools meant for indigenous peoples and national communities. Ukraine, he asserted, is defending its state language while respecting linguistic and cultural diversity and removing the Russian imperial influence that has been abused for years.

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The language of an aggressor state cannot use protection tools meant for indigenous peoples and national communities. Ukraine is defending its state language, respecting linguistic and cultural diversity, and removing the Russian imperial influence of privileges that have been abused for years.

The practical implications of the law mean the state is no longer obligated to offer public services in Russian. Crucially, the use of Russian in schools can be restricted, with justifications citing "linguistic justice and security for Ukraine." This action could be interpreted by Russia as a new casus belli, especially since protecting Russian speakers in Ukraine was an officially cited reason for the invasion.

This development touches upon deep historical and cultural narratives, including the concept of pan-Slavism and Moscow's historical claims over Kyiv as the "Mother of Russian Cities." The law's enactment underscores Ukraine's determination to forge its own identity, separate from Russian influence, as it moves closer to European integration.

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This decision is correct and exemplary. This decision relates to the dignity, justice, and linguistic security of Ukraine.