Public space without the "Russian world": a symbolic decision adopted
Russian music, books and films are banned: Poltava defends Ukrainian space
The deputies of the Poltava City Council adopted a decision to ban Russian-language cultural products in the community’s public spaces. This was reported on June 1, 2026 by the Commissioner for the Protection of the State Language.
As stated in the document, the decision was developed due to the need to protect the Ukrainian information space from the hybrid influences of the aggressor state. It refers to attempts by Russia to hinder the strengthening of national identity, the preservation of Ukrainian culture, traditions, customs and historical memory. The restrictions will apply to transport, public catering and cultural venues, marketplaces, and other public places. In practice, this concerns spaces where Russian-language content may be played or displayed not for private use, but to a wide audience.
In particular, the decision provides for a ban on the public use of Russian-language books, musical works, films, theatrical productions, concert programs, cultural and educational events, etc. In wartime, such decisions have not only cultural but also security significance. Russian content has for years been part of the Kremlin’s soft power, through which foreign meanings were imposed, dependence on the Russian information space was fostered, and Ukrainian identity was devalued.
Against the backdrop of the full-scale war, daily shelling of Ukrainian cities and the deaths of people due to Russian aggression, the public use of cultural products from the aggressor country increasingly provokes public outrage. With this decision, Poltava has effectively enshrined at the local level the requirement that the public space must work for Ukraine, not for Russian influence.
Previously we wrote:
- A Russian song was played in the “Mida” store: visitors were outraged over “Mother Earth”
- Fines for ignoring the Ukrainian language may increase tenfold: the language ombudsperson demands tougher changes
- Fines up to 11,900 UAH: the ship business was checked again for compliance with the language law
- In the fifth year of the war, 71% of Ukrainians still consume Russian-language content
- A Russian track topped the Ukrainian Apple Music chart
