Ukraine Is a Startup Nation: Chrystia Freeland on Rebuilding, Resilience & Innovation

In this episode of Off the Record, Natalka Cmoc speaks with Chrystia Freeland - Canada’s former Deputy Prime Minister and Special Representative on Ukraine’s Reconstruction - during her five-day mission in Kyiv.

Freeland reflects on why the world must rethink its view of Ukraine: not only as a victim of Russia’s aggression, but as a fighter, a winner, and an innovator. She describes Ukraine as a “startup nation,” and explains why global investors should look at Ukraine as a place of resilience, creativity, and historic opportunity.

Together, they discuss:

• What Freeland’s reconstruction mission means in practice
• Why Ukraine inspires the world with its determination to live
• How underground schools, thriving theaters, and innovative businesses reflect national resilience
• What investors should understand about Ukraine’s economic potential
• How allies can better communicate Ukraine’s story to the world

A conversation about courage, innovation, and the future Ukraine is building even during war.