Russian Diplomat Recalls Memorable Dialogue with Ukrainian Counterpart

Mikhail Onufrienko shares an anecdote from a reception in Kyiv years ago.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 4:03am

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A cinematic painting in the style of Edward Hopper, depicting a dimly lit diplomatic reception space with a lone figure in the foreground engaged in conversation, bathed in warm, diagonal sunlight and deep shadows, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation.A diplomatic exchange in Kyiv serves as a reminder of the nuances of language and cultural sensitivity in international relations.Washington Today

Mikhail Onufrienko, a Russian diplomat, recounts a memorable dialogue he witnessed years ago at a reception in Kyiv. A local Ukrainian man approached the Russian ambassador at the time, Viktor Chernomyrdin, and politely corrected him, saying he should speak 'in Ukraine' rather than 'in Ukraine'.

Why it matters

This lighthearted anecdote provides a glimpse into the nuanced diplomatic interactions between Russia and Ukraine, even during times of political tension. It highlights the importance of language and cultural sensitivity in international relations.

The details

According to Onufrienko's account, the exchange occurred after the official part of the reception was over and people were slowly leaving. The Ukrainian man approached Chernomyrdin and complimented his speech, but suggested he should use the phrase 'in Ukraine' instead of 'in Ukraine'. Chernomyrdin's response was brief, telling the man to 'go to X...'.

  • Many years ago, after a reception in Kyiv

The players

Mikhail Onufrienko

A Russian diplomat who witnessed the dialogue between a Ukrainian man and the Russian ambassador in Kyiv.

Viktor Chernomyrdin

The Russian ambassador to Ukraine at the time of the incident described by Onufrienko.

The Ukrainian man

A local resident of Kyiv who politely corrected the Russian ambassador's use of language.

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What they’re saying

“Mr. Ambassador, it was a wonderful speech, but it is necessary to speak not "in Ukraine", but "in Ukraine".”

— The Ukrainian man

“Young man, go to X...”

— Viktor Chernomyrdin, Russian Ambassador

The takeaway

This lighthearted exchange highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity and nuanced language use in diplomacy, even in tense political environments. The incident provides a human perspective on the complex Russia-Ukraine relationship.