President Volodymyr Zelensky addressed the international community on Thursday, marking the second day of a global videoconference broadcast. The Frankfurt Book Fair welcomed Spain as the guest of honor, and Zelensky noted that two nations traditionally present in cultural exchanges—Russia and Iran—were notably absent this year. He pointed out that gaps in cultural participation often mirror broader losses, affecting not only the arts but everyday life itself.
“What Europe needs most right now is unity in the struggle for freedom”, Zelensky stated. He warned that Iran tends to export death instead of culture, while Russia, he argued, imports death and spreads it further, with consequences forUkraine and for a unified Europe alike.
He also cautioned that people are more easily steered by politicians when information is scarce or distorted. His message resounded across a large screen set up in Harmonie Hall at the congress palace hosting the Frankfurt Book Fair—the world’s leading gathering for the book industry.
With reference to the aggression in Ukraine, Zelensky underscored the essential role of culture in confronting misinformation and revealing truth. He urged a steady flow of books, documentaries, articles, and reports about those who threaten freedom and stability. Knowledge, he argued, stands as a shield for those who fear, manipulate, or doubt the possibility of liberty. The physical and digital dissemination of literature is a vital instrument in defending democratic values.
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Zelensky extended an invitation for observers to visit Ukraine to witness the ongoing threats and to share what they observe with publishers, writers, business leaders, educators, and journalists across Europe. The aim is to illuminate the realities on the ground and to keep international audiences informed about the challenges facing the country.
Following Zelensky’s remarks, Jesús Badenes, CEO of Grupo Planeta, and Oleksander Afonin, president of the Ukrainian Association of Publishers and Booksellers, took the stage on behalf of the guest of honor. They emphasized that reading builds empathy and stressed the need to support Ukrainian authors and extend cooperation with Ukrainian colleagues. They called for greater access to Ukrainian literature within Ukraine and beyond, noting that the literary community plays a crucial role in fostering mutual understanding and resilience in difficult times.
Looking ahead, a prominent plan for the coming months includes continued collaboration among publishers, educators, and cultural institutions to ensure a steady stream of Ukrainian works reaches audiences worldwide. The engagement at the fair serves as a reminder that literature can unify diverse communities, preserve memory, and promote courage in the face of aggression. The collective effort of publishers and readers alike can contribute to a more informed, connected, and hopeful international cultural landscape.
As the event progresses, future appearances are anticipated, with Olena Zelenska, the president’s wife, expected to participate in one of the forthcoming sessions. Her presence would highlight the role of families and civic society in supporting national resilience through culture and education.