— Congratulations. When and under what circumstances did the idea of creating a movement for the independence of the Pskov Republic arise?
— Good afternoon, I knew about the independence of the Pskov Republic back in elementary school. In local history lessons, we were told that our region was once an independent state. They emphasised that the Pskov Republic was wealthy, economically and legally developed. Over time, I got the feeling that the Pskov region was a small piece of Europe, but at the same time, I saw poverty, depression, low salaries and bad roads. There was something to compare it to — Latvia and Estonia were nearby. I came to the conclusion that the Pskov region was a hostage of Russia. Over time, I became a convinced supporter of independence. Since there were no independence movements, I took on the responsibility of talking about the need for independent life, attracting the attention of my fellow countrymen. Later, we created the Pskov Republican Centre to coordinate the actions of supporters of independence.
— What are the key goals and strategic objectives of the movement in the short and long term?
— Our ultimate goal is the proclamation of an independent Pskov Republic. All tasks are aimed at achieving this goal. We are forming our own information space, reminding residents of our history and cultural identity, and proving that an independent Pskov region will live more prosperously and freely. We are constantly working to attract new supporters so that at the right moment, we have sufficient resources for decisive action.
— How is the idea of independence perceived in the region — is there support or resistance?
— Almost everyone has heard the phrase “Pskov Republic”. It is part of our history; they know about it from school textbooks and museum exhibits. We speak to people in the language of facts: the region is declining, dying out, becoming poorer. Even the most ardent patriots do not deny this. The people of Pskov feel their separate identity and cultural closeness to Europe. When we reach a wide audience, I am sure that the idea of independence will be supported.
— How do you assess Moscow’s use of the region for military purposes?
— Due to its strategic location, the region has become a springboard for military infrastructure. This is actually the only reason for Moscow’s interest in the Pskov region. The so-called “veterans of the SVO” are returning to the region and are already terrorising the locals. In the future, great efforts will have to be made to ensure internal security. In addition, the Pskov region risks becoming a new front line and a legitimate military target, even disappearing from the map.
— Do you see a deliberate policy of Moscow to maintain control over the region?
— Yes. Even after the annexation of the Pskov Republic, Moscow pursued a policy of suppression. The once strong and wealthy region has turned into a remote outpost. Today, the region has “one foot in the grave.” This is a consequence of the purposeful policy that the Kremlin is pursuing towards all its colonies.
— Do you maintain contacts with other movements for secession from the Russian Federation?
— Yes. We cooperate with all national liberation movements, we speak on joint platforms — for example, at the Forum of Free States of Post-Russia.
— How do you assess the activities of other anti-colonial movements in the Russian Federation and their impact on Moscow’s military potential?
— I support all such initiatives. They undermine the Kremlin’s monopoly on determining the future of the regions. Some demoralise the mobilised, some destroy trust in the centre, others carry out sabotage — this is the most effective. I am sure that in the near future we will see more actions against Russian troops inside the Russian Federation.
— What is your movement’s attitude towards Ukraine and other states that have been subjected to Russian aggression?
— We respect Ukraine and openly express solidarity with its people. The steadfastness of Ukrainians in the struggle inspires us. For the Pskov region, the experience of the Baltic countries — our neighbours and natural allies — is especially valuable.
— Thank you and good luck to you!
Author: Valentyn Demenko
