Democracies' greatest strength in war against dictatorships, says Yusov

Andrii Yusov's speech at the Black Sea Security Forum

According to Главком: Speaking at the Black Sea Security Forum in Odesa, Andrii Yusov-a representative of Ukraine's Defense Ministry's Main Intelligence Directorate and an advisor to the head of the Presidential Office-contrasted the core advantages of democracies and dictatorships. He argued that free nations draw their power from a willingness to fight for liberty, whereas authoritarian regimes rely on a different asset: a readiness to sacrifice their own soldiers.

Yusov noted that the war has now lasted over 12 years, with more than 4 of those being full-scale. He emphasized that Ukrainians have not fallen into the Russian abyss, despite the immense hardship.

“Ukrainians have been staring into the Russian abyss for a long time-over 12 years of this war, over 4 years of full-scale war... But we have endured and never became that abyss. That is precisely why Putin hates us,” said Andrii Yusov.

Preserving European values

He also underscored the importance of maintaining European values in Ukraine amid the trials the country faces.

“Freedom is also a source of strength, and we fight for it. Identity is our right, and Ukrainians, Europeans, and democrats around the world must fight for it,” Yusov stated.

Yusov stressed that Ukraine has no alternative to a democratic path of development, and the country must stay the course. He pointed out that totalitarian regimes are typically outmatched by the free world in economic scale, but hold a distinct advantage in their willingness to use violence. He warned that it is essential for Ukraine not to lose its inner essence and democratic system, declaring that “we cannot afford to become an autocracy or a closed system that disregards human lives.”

Yusov's address at the Black Sea Security Forum highlights the key aspects of Ukraine's struggle for democratic values amid a prolonged war. His remarks reflect the country's determination to preserve its identity and defend freedom despite the aggressor's challenges, serving as a reminder of the need for international support and solidarity among democratic nations facing authoritarian regimes.

In light of Yusov's remarks on the resilience of democracies, it's worth examining how Ukraine is also making significant strides in the technological realm amid ongoing conflict. Recent reports indicate that the country is emerging victorious in the tech sector, further highlighting the critical role innovation plays in the fight for freedom and stability.