By Giorgi Mamisashvili and Thomas Murphy
On February 8th, 2024, the Yokosuka Council on Asia-Pacific Studies (YCAPS), in collaboration with the Japan International Christian University Foundation, hosted the Ukrainian Ambassador to Japan, Sergiy Korsunsky, for an in-person discussion and Q&A moderated by Dr. Stephen Nagy, Director of Policy Studies at YCAPS.
The event started by recognizing the ongoing crisis in Ukraine serves as a stark reminder of the intricate interplay between history, geopolitics, and humanitarian concerns that is currently shaping global events. The Ambassador noted that the conflict between Russia and Ukraine is rooted in centuries of intertwined history, characterised by complex political, cultural, and geographical dynamics. Despite Ukraine's independence in the years following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, its historical ties to Russia continue to influence regional dynamics profoundly. Ambassador Korsunsky's presentation highlighted the enduring historical challenges that underpin the conflict and underscored the importance of recognizing Ukraine's distinct cultural and educational heritage as its own.
Ambassador Korsunksy touched upon several themes. Among these was the staggering humanitarian toll of the Ukrainian crisis, citing atrocities, such as the Bucha massacre, underscoring the urgent need for international intervention and support. The Ambassador's accounts, as well as the accounts of those presented on video of dire conditions in places like Mariupol—where mass graves and attacks on civilian infrastructure are reported—painted a grim picture of the conflict. Particular attention was given to the plight of refugees and internally displaced persons within Ukraine, further emphasising the need for increased global humanitarian effort.
Other topics the Ambassador covered in this presentation include the ramifications of the war beyond Ukraine’s borders, Japan’s support for Ukraine and the importance of continued international support and engagement with Ukraine.
Following the Ambassador’s remarks, a Q&A session was held that provided valuable insights into various facets of the crisis, from Japan's role to the potential impact of political shifts on international support for Ukraine. The questions asked, ranging from Ukraine’s post-war outlook, to the potential spillover of the conflict into the Indo-Pacific, highlighted the complexity of the situation and the importance of sustained international involvement in addressing humanitarian, geopolitical, and future-oriented challenges.