Introduction: European Histories of Ukraine and the Valorization of the Past
Introduction: European Histories of Ukraine and the Valorization of the Past

Summary/Abstract: On 24 February 2022, Ukraine became, in the eyes of both Ukrainian and Western European politicians, a European country - defined by its history and values. In response to Russia’s full-scale attack on Ukraine, European politicians reflected on the nation’s European history to explain the support offered by the European Union (EU) and its member states. Charles Michel, President of the European Council, for instance, visited Odesa to celebrate Europe Day on 9 May, praised the city as “a melting pot of European culture and history,” and declared that “the people of Odesa shield their monuments from the bullets and rockets, just like Ukrainians are shielding their freedom from the Russian aggression.”

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