Harsh realities, root causes of Ukraine war A new book reveals

Illia Ponomarenko's latest book, "I Will Show You How It Was," presents a vivid portrayal of life in wartime Kyiv, offering insights into the underlying reasons for Russia's incursion into Ukraine, as discussed in an opinion piece from The Economist.

Ponomarenko, who moved to Kyiv in 2016 with limited resources, embodies the resilient spirit of Ukraine’s post-Soviet generation. He co-founded the Kyiv Independent after the Kyiv Post's entire staff resigned in protest against censorship, establishing a vital news source during the war.

The book underscores two significant points: the resilience of Ukrainians and the true motivations behind the conflict. It dispels myths about NATO or Western provocations being the cause of the war, highlighting instead the nature of Russia as a dictatorship serving Vladimir Putin’s interests. The Kremlin has spent years propagating hatred and revanchism to strengthen Putin’s grip on power, neglecting the basic needs of its people, such as the 12% of Russians without indoor toilets.

Ponomarenko critiques Putin’s delusional invasion strategy, which underestimated Ukraine’s national identity and will to resist. In 2021, Putin’s essay, which distorted history and threatened Ukraine’s sovereignty, was dismissed by many as bluster. However, it laid the ideological groundwork for what became an unjustifiable and catastrophic war.

Drawing from his experiences as a defence reporter and a participant in the 2013-14 Maidan revolution, Ponomarenko offers insights into Ukraine’s determination to reject Russian domination and pursue a European future. He details how Putin’s insecurities about a democratic Ukraine prompted aggressive actions, starting with Crimea's annexation and support for criminal gangs in Donbas, culminating in a failed attempt to quickly conquer Ukraine.

Ponomarenko highlights the innovative tactics of Ukrainian troops, such as using decoy images to mislead Russian bombers, showcasing their resourcefulness and morale. His portrayal of the war’s brutal realities is stark, emphasizing the imperative for Ukrainians to continue their fight to preserve their nation’s existence. He expresses chilling anger towards Russian soldiers committing atrocities but also shows empathy for conscripts who are victims of Putin’s war. The tragic fate of a young soldier from a remote Russian village exemplifies the senseless loss driven by Putin’s ambitions.

Ultimately, Ponomarenko’s book serves as a poignant reminder of the horrors of the war and the lunacy of aged dictators who prioritize their delusions over the well-being of their people.