Is the Latin Alphabet a Weapon? A Belarusian Perspective on Linguistic Hybrid Warfare

The use of the Latin alphabet on products and signage in Belarus and Russia has sparked debate about its potential impact on Slavic cultural identity. A video by kratko_novosty (@kratko.novosty) on this topic highlights concerns that this shift is a form of hybrid warfare, subtly undermining cultural heritage. The speaker argues that the Latin alphabet lacks the historical and cultural connection to Slavic languages that Cyrillic possesses. "This is a slow-acting mine," she states, emphasizing the long-term implications of this linguistic change. While the video presents a strong opinion, further investigation is needed to verify the extent of this phenomenon and its effects on Belarusian and Russian society. The debate underscores the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the face of globalization and political influence. It also raises questions about the role of language in shaping national identity.