Debate
How to end the war in Ukraine?
- Speakers: Oleksii Anulya, Joris Voorhoeve and Casper Wits (moderator)
- Date
- Wednesday 18 February 2026
- Time
- Address
-
Wijnhaven
Turfmarkt 99
2511 DP The Hague - Room
- Campus Den Haag, Wijnhaven 2.02
On February 18, at Leiden University's Den Haag Campus, we will welcome a special guest with a poignant and inspiring story: Oleksii Anulya. Oleksii was an elite athlete in boxing (193 cm, 113 kg) and served as a special forces front-line soldier in the fight against the Russian invasion. His life changed drastically when he was taken prisoner. After nine months of severe torture and starvation, he was released in a prisoner exchange; by then, he weighed only 63 kg and had lost 7 cm in height due to multiple spinal fractures. Following 14 months of surgeries and recovery, he is now sharing his story.
Oleksii has an important message for Europe and specifically wishes to engage in dialogue with young people and students about the reality of war and the value of freedom.
Alongside Oleksii Anulya’s contribution, former Minister of Defence Joris Voorhoeve will share his expertise on the further course of the Russo-Ukrainian war. He will reflect on the prospects for peace negotiations and the specific roles that the EU and the Netherlands play in this process.
After this, there will be plenty of time for a Q&A and discussion with Mr. Anulya and Mr. Voorhoeve.
Oleksii's story is included in the book "True Courage" by Joris Voorhoeve, which can be bought after the event.