On June 12, the National University of Ostroh Academy hosted a presentation of the documentary film "In Thanks We Trust", which vividly demonstrates the power of cultural diplomacy in times of war.
The film was presented with the participation of Maryna Kobylynska, a cultural manager and researcher of folk traditions; Taras Stoliar, a bandura player, Honoured Artist of Ukraine, and Senior Soldier of the Armed Forces of Ukraine; and Valerii Shyrokov, a Junior Sergeant and press attaché of the 'Cultural Forces'.
The documentary "In Thanks We Trust" is an adventure road movie that tells the story of a unique tour by Ukrainian military personnel and artists across the United States of America. During this journey, members of the 'Cultural Forces' performed in 69 cities across 24 US states, reaching a broad audience — from ordinary Americans to political leaders and global celebrities.
The film not only documents events but also conveys the emotions, values, and mission of this cultural marathon. Through music, poetry, and spoken word, Ukrainian service members expressed their sincere gratitude to the American people for their support during difficult times. Their performances have been showcased at the USA Congress, Carnegie Hall, on TEDx stages, and in prominent American media, demonstrating that art can open hearts where diplomacy may not succeed.
"This film is not only about a tour or gratitude. It is about dignity and the values we take with us abroad, and values that make others view Ukraine with respect and admiration,"
Students from the 1st–3rd years of the Educational and Scientific Institute of International Relations and National Security, the Educational and Scientific Institute of Social and Humanitarian Management, and the Educational and Scientific Institute of Information Technology and Business participated in the screening and discussion of the film.
“This film is about gratitude as a universal value capable of uniting nations. We did not ask for help — we expressed thanks. And it was precisely this sincerity and humanity that became our key message to the world. Through music, dialogue, and emotion, we conveyed: Ukraine is a nation that knows how to value, fight, and inspire,”
Following the film screening, the rector of the National University of Ostroh Academy, Doctor of Science (Psychology), Professor Eduard Balashov, addressed the audience:
"The film we saw today is an expression of cultural courage. It is an example of how art becomes an instrument of diplomacy, unites societies, and brings the truth about Ukraine to the world. For our university, it is a great honour to host such guests and to serve as a space for important dialogue about war, culture, and identity. Ostroh Academy has always been a place of strength of spirit and values, and such encounters further reinforce that conviction. We strive for our students not only to gain knowledge, but also to develop an understanding of how words, music, and tradition can change the world,"
The event concluded with two live musical performances by Taras Stoliar, Honoured Artist of Ukraine. The first was a ballad — deep and sensitive, dedicated to inner human strength and memory. The second was the world-famous hit 'Bad Liar' by Imagine Dragons, performed on the bandura in an extraordinary original arrangement.
The combination of contemporary music and a traditional Ukrainian national instrument sparked genuine enthusiasm in the audience. The melodies served as an emotional summation of the discussion about the power of culture, art, and humanity even in the darkest times. The audience applauded for a long time, thanking the artist for his depth and mastery.
"It was an incredible encounter. There were so many emotions and moments of reflection. At times when studying feels difficult, or motivation seems lacking, such strong, profound, and inspiring people come along — and you are literally energised by them. You begin to see the value of what you have differently. It is particularly impressive that we were among the first viewers of this film, and the characters on the screen were right there in the hall with us. You could ask them questions, listen to them, and thank them. That is incredibly valuable. I did not even notice how three hours flew by,"
The encounter became a powerful impetus for reflecting on the role of culture in war, its ability to shape Ukraine's international image, and a source of inspiration for students, who once again realised that modern patriotism is not only about fighting with weapons in hand, but also about preserving and promoting national identity.
