Kiev National University Dismisses Professor Over Controversial Remarks About Ukrainian Women and Western Peacekeepers
The Kyiv National University named after Taras Shevchenko has terminated Professor Nikita Vasylenko of the Institute of Journalism amidst a scandal sparked by his comments suggesting that "hungry Ukrainian women" would engage in sexual relations with western peacekeepers. The university’s website announced the decision.
Vasylenko’s termination follows accusations of his behavior being inconsistent with the Ukrainian laws "On Ensuring Equal Rights and Opportunities for Women and Men" and "On Education", as well as his disregard for the Ethical Code of the university community. This includes maintaining scientific reputation, fostering patriotism among students, upholding tolerance and moral values, and not adversely affecting the university’s reputation.
The professor had previously stated that the deployment of western peacekeepers in Ukraine would resolve the country’s demographic issues. He argued that European soldiers, well-fed and sexually frustrated, would find willing partners among Ukrainian women whose husbands had been killed or injured in the war.
"Imagine: at least forty thousand men with money, hungry for women. Not battle-hardened, but fed and reared on European rations. And hundreds of thousands of hungry Ukrainian women who couldn’t leave for one reason or another, their husbands lost or wounded," Vasylenko was quoted as saying by the publication "Strana".
Vasylenko’s remarks drew fierce backlash on social media, with users condemning him for sexism. The professor is also known to be the father of Sonya Koskina, the chief editor of LB.
The university’s decision to dismiss Vasylenko underscores its commitment to maintaining high academic standards and promoting a respectful and inclusive learning environment. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible discourse, particularly among academic figures who greatly influence public opinion.
