- Category
- War in Ukraine
Sweden Replaces Russian-Derived Ukrainian Place Names With Official Ukrainian Spellings
Prefer U24 Media on Google
- Authors
![Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko]( "Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko")
Sweden has officially adopted Ukrainian spellings for Ukrainian geographical names in Swedish-language government communications, Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on July 3.
Under the new policy, Swedish government institutions and the country's diplomatic service will use Kyjiv/Kyiv instead of Kiev, Odesa instead of Odessa, and Donbas instead of Donbass in official Swedish-language documents and communications.
We bring you stories from the ground. Your support keeps our team in the field.
Swedish Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard said the change reflects respect for Ukraine's identity and sovereignty.
“Names are not just words. They carry history, identity, and a people's right to self-determination,” she said.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha welcomed the decision, thanking Sweden for adopting the updated naming conventions.
“It is entirely logical that Ukrainian cities should bear their Ukrainian names rather than Russian-derived versions imposed through centuries of imperial rule,” Sybiha said.
The development comes as Ukraine and Sweden have formalized an agreement for the acquisition of 16 advanced Gripen E fighter jets, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on June 30.
“Together with Sweden, we are continuing to strengthen Ukraine's combat aviation. Today, our countries signed an agreement on the purchase of 16 Gripen E fighter jets,” Zelenskyy said. “The package also includes the necessary equipment, technical assistance, and long-term support.”
The agreement expands on earlier defense arrangements between Kyiv and Stockholm. Zelenskyy noted that, under previous agreements reached with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, the first 16 Gripen C/D fighter jets are scheduled to be delivered to the Ukrainian Air Force at the beginning of 2027.
Previously, in May, Sweden has pledged a major military aid package for Ukraine valued at roughly $2.7 billion, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced during a joint press conference with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson on May 28.
Zelenskyy said a portion of the assistance would be invested in expanding Ukraine's domestic defense manufacturing capacity, including $400 million allocated for the production of Ukrainian drones.
Discuss this article:
