Part 7/15:
Language acts as a crucial marker of identity. Western Ukraine speaks a Ukrainian heavily influenced by Polish, Hungarian, and other Western European languages. It often identifies with Greek Catholic traditions, fostering a cultural notion of what it means to be Ukrainian. Eastern Ukraine, in contrast, speaks a more Russian-influenced dialect of Ukrainian, with many residents supporting Orthodox Christianity and maintaining Russian cultural ties.
This dialectical division has been politicized through policies aimed at defining who qualifies as a "true Ukrainian." Dr. Petro criticizes attempts to impose narrow definitions—such as emphasizing Greek Catholic speakers from Galicia—as the authentic Ukraine, thereby marginalizing the diverse identities within the country.