A Visit to the Book Arsenal
Former Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko, accompanied by his wife Maryna, attended the Book Arsenal festival in Kyiv, where they bought approximately 80 books. This outing marked a notable moment not only for the couple but also for the country’s cultural scene. Details about their visit and the selected titles were shared on Poroshenko’s official Facebook page.
Selected Titles
Among the works that caught the couple’s attention were:
- 'Wind from Mars' by poet Lina Kostenko. This collection features poems written from the dawn of Ukraine’s independence through the ongoing war.
- 'Drone Warfare: Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in the Russo-Ukrainian War' by military historian Mykhailo Zhirokhov. Poroshenko highlighted the book’s significance, stating,
“Drone warfare is what today represents the strength of the Armed Forces, the plan for victory, and Ukraine’s diplomacy.”
- 'Shukh: The Story of a Legend', a biography of Ukrainian Insurgent Army commander Roman Shukhevych. Poroshenko noted this book’s personal relevance, explaining,
“Our enemies destroyed his museum in Lviv, and we are currently working to restore it.”
He added, “Two and a half years have passed, and it still hasn’t been fully restored. But an incredible book has been published—I strongly recommend it. Pick it up and read it. It features stunning illustrations. This is about Ukraine and Ukrainian identity.”
Of note, First Lady Olena Zelenska also attended the opening of the Book Arsenal in Kyiv, underscoring the growing emphasis on literature and cultural initiatives across Ukraine.
Poroshenko’s visit to the Book Arsenal highlights the role of cultural events in modern Ukrainian society, especially amid war and the ongoing effort to rebuild national identity. By purchasing books that delve into Ukraine’s history and current realities, he not only contributes personally to the literary world but also supports Ukrainian authors and cultural projects. This reflects how political figures are actively engaging with the country’s cultural life and promoting Ukrainian literature to the broader public.
In addition to Poroshenko's notable purchases, First Lady Olena Zelenska also made her presence felt at the festival, selecting three books that reflect the importance of literature in shaping Ukraine's cultural identity. Her participation underscores the collective effort to promote reading and cultural initiatives during these challenging times.