Kyiv removes Mikhail Bulgakov memorial, dispute continues on social media

On 4 June 2026, a monument to Russian writer Mikhail Bulgakov was dismantled in Kyiv on Andriyivsky Descent, which had been erected in 2007 near the writer's home museum. Kyiv authorities relied on the position of the National Memory Institute, which associates Bulgakov with Russian imperialist propaganda. The decision has sparked heated debate in both Ukrainian and Russian-language media.

On 4 June 2026, a monument to Russian writer Mikhail Bulgakov was removed from Andriyivsky Descent in Kyiv, whose works many associate with Russian imperialist culture. The monument had been installed in 2007 in front of the writer's home museum, known as the Turbiny House-named after characters in Bulgakov's novel The White Guard.

Why the monument was removed

Kyiv authorities decided to demolish the monument back in December of the previous year, relying on a recommendation from the National Memory Institute. "The image of Mikhail Bulgakov is included on a list of individuals whose names Russian propaganda uses to glorify Russia's imperialist policy, and objects associated with them must be removed from public space," the Kyiv City State Administration stated. After dismantling, the sculpture was handed over to the heirs of sculptor Nikolai Rapay.

Debate on social media

The decision has generated lively discussion in both Ukrainian and Russian-language social media and media outlets. Some commentators accuse city leaders of vandalism, arguing it amounts to destruction of cultural heritage. Others point to Bulgakov's correspondence and texts that contain clearly anti-Ukrainian rhetoric, and support the decision.

Bulgakov was born in Kyiv in 1891 and spent part of his youth there, but he wrote in Russian and identified himself with Russian culture. During the war, Ukraine has intensified debate over which cultural figures should be honoured in public space and which should not.