Ukrainian Director’s Emotional Denunciation of Russian Invasion at Oscars
In a powerful and emotional acceptance speech at the Oscars on Sunday, Ukrainian director Mstyslav Chernov used his platform to condemn the ongoing invasion of his country by Russian forces. Chernov’s documentary, “20 Days in Mariupol,” which won the award for best documentary feature, captures the harrowing first days of the Russian invasion and the devastation faced by the port city of Mariupol.
“I’ll be the first director on this stage who will say, ‘I wish I never made this film,'” Chernov said, expressing his regret over the need to document such tragic events. He went on to plead for an end to the violence and for the release of all hostages and soldiers caught in the conflict.
Chernov and his crew narrowly escaped Mariupol as they raced to safety, but he made it clear in his speech that he wanted the truth of what happened to be remembered. “We can make sure that the history record is set straight and that the truth will prevail,” he said.
The news of the documentary’s Oscar win was met with celebration in Ukraine, with many taking to social media to express their gratitude for shedding light on Russia’s aggression. President Volodymyr Zelensky praised the film for countering Russian propaganda and keeping Ukraine in the global spotlight.
As the world continues to watch the events unfolding in Ukraine, Chernov’s powerful message serves as a reminder of the importance of bearing witness to the truth and standing up against injustice.
