A Sovereignist Turn? Ukraine Needs Reformers, Not Populists

In the fifth year of Russia's invasion, Ukrainian political discourse hints at a new ideological current known as sovereignism. This movement is a reaction to the war, the battlefield, and societal changes. It channels the emotions triggered by conflict. Ukrainians have proven their adaptability during extreme conditions, showing creativity, unconventional thinking, determination, courage, and resilience.

Their resistance has been extraordinary. However, this resilience might also foster a more concerning political inclination: sovereignism. The conflict with Poland over historical memory exemplifies this trend. Ukrainian leaders often declare, "No one will tell us who our heroes should be," not merely to defend Ukraine's narrative but to resist external narratives.

This sentiment, though understandable, underscores a desire to define Ukraine's identity on its own terms. While nationalist sentiment has indeed risen since 2022, some attribute it to sovereignism. The dispute with Poland also suggests that Poland may view Ukraine as a future economic competitor, a notion driven more by emotion than analysis.

Yet, competition is part of the European market and bilateral relations, managed through negotiation and regulation. In July, Kyrylo Budanov referred to Ukrainians as a "chosen nation," a statement that can be interpreted in various ways. Similarly, Kyiv's billboards urging Ukraine not to join the European Union, expressing sentiments like "Independence from Moscow – and from Brussels" or "Friendship with the EU, yes – membership, no," reveal a growing disappointment with the West.

This sentiment is also evident in reactions to Russian missiles and drones violating NATO airspace. Many commentators view NATO and the EU as ineffective, yet these same voices still argue for Ukraine's membership. These instances may appear harmless individually, but together, they indicate a broader political trend. This trend, known as sovereignism, is attractive to populists and vested interests.

It provides a convenient way to divert attention from necessary reforms, mask governance issues with symbolic identity conflicts, and rally public support around the flag. However, from a populist perspective, it is easier to argue that "they don't want us" than to undertake politically costly reforms required for EU accession. Ukraine's political stance toward its allies sometimes exhibits an "not one step back" mentality during disputes.

For instance, President Zelensky attempted in the summer of 2025 to reduce the independence of Ukraine's anti-corruption institutions following mass public protests and EU pressure. Despite political disagreements, Ukraine maintains broad Western support, particularly from NATO's eastern flank and the Nordic countries. However, the quality of these partnerships will increasingly depend on Ukraine's policies, including domestic governance.

While national pride and self-confidence are not inherently problematic for a country fighting for survival, building politics solely on these emotions rarely yields positive outcomes. Sovereignism may seem appealing, but in practice, it risks sliding into provincialism.