Poklonskaya Attempts to Teach Sobchak Ukrainian Words: 'Palyanytsia' Becomes a Topic of Conversation
Natalia Poklonskaya, the former prosecutor of Crimea and a symbol of the peninsula's annexation in 2014, engaged in a peculiar linguistic exchange with Russian journalist Ksenia Sobchak, focusing on the Ukrainian word 'palyanytsia,' which has become a well-known 'password' for identifying outsiders.
In a recent interview, Natalia Poklonskaya, who gained notoriety as the prosecutor of Crimea during its annexation by Russia in 2014, attempted to teach Ksenia Sobchak, a prominent Russian journalist, some Ukrainian vocabulary. The conversation notably centered around the word 'palyanytsia,' which has gained recognition in Ukraine as a sort of linguistic test used to identify foreigners.
During the discussion, Sobchak sought to clarify the meaning of 'palyanytsia,' acknowledging that it refers to bread. However, Poklonskaya interjected with her own interpretation, asserting that 'palyanytsia' is not bread at all, but rather... an ashtray. This unexpected claim sparked surprise and laughter among listeners who tuned into their exchange.
To bolster her argument, Poklonskaya even conducted a mini masterclass, demonstrating the correct pronunciation of the word. She explained that it is more accurate to say something akin to 'polynytsia' and insisted that it refers to a place where cigarette butts are discarded. To reinforce her lesson, she repeated this version several times in succession.
The discussion about the Ukrainian 'palyanytsia' began when Poklonskaya showcased her playlist, which included Ukrainian music, notably songs by Natalia Buchynska. She attempted to justify her choice by stating that this artist is not considered an 'acknowledged extremist,' emphasizing her stance as a 'patriot.'
Interestingly, in the fall of 2025, it was reported that Poklonskaya, once a fervent Christian, had undergone a significant transformation in her beliefs, converting to paganism and adopting the new name Radveda. She renounced Orthodox Christianity in favor of 'another spiritual value system' associated with paganism and nature cults. These changes in her life have sparked considerable public interest, especially given her previous reputation for religious activism.
Thus, the interview between Poklonskaya and Sobchak not only highlighted linguistic barriers but also illustrated how shifts in personal beliefs can impact public image and societal perceptions. The word 'palyanytsia' and its meanings have become symbols of not only cultural differences but also the political contexts that remain relevant in Ukraine and Russia today.