The city of Dnipro, historically known as Dnepropetrovsk in Ukrainian, is moving to rename eighty street names that currently honor figures or periods linked to Russia and the Soviet era. Local authorities describe the plan as part of a broader effort to align the city’s public space with Ukraine’s post-Soviet identity. The decision, reported by a local news outlet, rests with the municipal council and aims to reflect a secular, national heritage that resonates with residents today and in the future. The initiative underscores a nationwide push to reexamine toponyms in ways that reinforce Ukrainian language and history across all neighborhoods. [Source: News]
Among the changes, the street previously named after poet Vladimir Mayakovsky is slated to receive the name Skifskaya. Another street, once dedicated to Soviet cosmonaut Alexander Volkov, is set to honor Ukrainian cosmonaut Leonid Kadeniuk. A third, associated with pilot Nikolai Gastello, will be renamed Chepurnaya. These decisions are part of a larger catalog of renamings intended to emphasize Ukrainian scientific achievement, culture, and historical figures who are closely tied to the nation’s modern identity. The council argues that such changes help residents better connect with their heritage and promote a public environment that reflects the country’s current values. [Source: News]
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Language Ombudsman has called for greater oversight of Odessa, a city known for its vibrant bilingual street life and dense advertising presence. The official has highlighted concerns about the visibility of Russian language materials in public advertising, signage, and other outdoor information in certain districts. The aim, as stated, is to ensure that information presented in the public realm aligns with the state language policy and avoids creating confusion about language use in civic spaces. Deputies and city administrators are being urged to review and, where necessary, remove materials that do not meet the official standards. This approach is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Ukrainian language presence in daily life across major urban centers. [Source: News]
The topic also ties into ongoing national conversations about security, sovereignty, and regional politics. Ukrainian leadership has repeatedly stressed the importance of defending territorial integrity and avoiding actions that could be interpreted as escalations. In public discourse, officials emphasize that preserving clear boundaries and consistent language norms in cities serves as a practical expression of national resilience. Observers note that these measures, while focusing on language and toponymy, also contribute to building a sense of unity and continuity for residents who have faced periods of significant upheaval. The broader context includes ongoing discussions about how best to manage shared spaces in a way that respects both local identities and the country’s overarching legal framework. [Source: News]