Vitalii Dribnytsia, a 59-year-old history teacher from Bila Tserkva, Ukraine, has taken it upon himself to use the internet as a platform to educate Russians about Ukrainian history amidst the ongoing conflict. His mission focuses on confronting counterfactual narratives propagated by the Kremlin and fostering a better understanding of Ukraine's national identity, particularly in light of the ongoing invasion.
Ukrainian Teacher Uses Online Platform to Challenge Russian Beliefs
Ukrainian Teacher Uses Online Platform to Challenge Russian Beliefs
Vitalii Dribnytsia, a former history teacher from Ukraine, engages with Russians on Chatroulette to correct misconceptions about Ukrainian history and sovereignty.
In a colorful café, Dribnytsia logs into Chatroulette to connect with random Russians. He begins engaging them with provocative questions such as, “Who does Crimea belong to?” This opening gambit often elicits defensive responses that lead to intense discussions on various historical matters, including Ukraine's struggle for independence in the early 20th century. Despite some Russians conceding points during these exchanges, many stubbornly refuse to acknowledge Ukraine's existence, often minimized by the statement that “the internet will tell you everything,” as one user claimed during a recent interaction.
Over the past three years, Dribnytsia has engaged in countless conversations aiming to dismantle widespread beliefs—that Ukraine was birthed by the Soviet Union, that its leadership is extremist, or that its language is simply a Russian dialect. His method combines sharp questioning with calm articulation, making it accessible for those he encounters.
As a response to his efforts, Dribnytsia has amassed a significant following on YouTube, where he shares footage from these conversations on his channel “Vox Veritatis” (Latin for “The Voice of the Truth”). Nearly half a million subscribers tune in to hear the exchanges, not just to witness Dribnytsia’s challenges to Russian claims but also to learn more about their own history and articulate a coherent defense of Ukraine’s right to self-determination. Through his innovative approach, he not only educates but also inspires a nation to reclaim its narrative in the face of adversity.
Over the past three years, Dribnytsia has engaged in countless conversations aiming to dismantle widespread beliefs—that Ukraine was birthed by the Soviet Union, that its leadership is extremist, or that its language is simply a Russian dialect. His method combines sharp questioning with calm articulation, making it accessible for those he encounters.
As a response to his efforts, Dribnytsia has amassed a significant following on YouTube, where he shares footage from these conversations on his channel “Vox Veritatis” (Latin for “The Voice of the Truth”). Nearly half a million subscribers tune in to hear the exchanges, not just to witness Dribnytsia’s challenges to Russian claims but also to learn more about their own history and articulate a coherent defense of Ukraine’s right to self-determination. Through his innovative approach, he not only educates but also inspires a nation to reclaim its narrative in the face of adversity.
