Z Empire Unmasked - Russia's War of Aggression, Ukraine's Defence, and Lessons for New Zealand

Ukrainian New Zealander Kyrylo Cyril Kutcher, a researcher and technology professional, will be launching his new book Z Empire Unmasked: War at the Heart of a Fracturing World.

During his presentation, Kutcher will explore the central ideas of the book, including the political and ideological origins of conflict, the breakdown of international standards, and the workings of Russian imperialism and hybrid warfare in the contemporary era. He'll address why Ukraine continues to defend itself, why imposed ceasefires are ineffective, and how this resistance challenges the existing global framework.

Kutcher will also examine the technological aspects of modern warfare, discussing how drones, artificial intelligence, and satellite-enabled mobile communications have reshaped the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, spurred innovation within the defence industry, and what implications this holds for collective security, emergency preparedness, and public awareness. He'll conclude with a call to action, outlining what governments, educators, policymakers, and ordinary citizens can and should do to strengthen resilience, maintain international law, and protect peace.

A limited run of paperback copies printed in Aotearoa will be available for purchase and signing.

About the Speaker

Kyrylo Cyril Kutcher is a Ukrainian New Zealander with a career spanning communication technologies, extensive international travel, and lived experience across Europe and Aotearoa. His writing has been published internationally in foreign affairs outlets across New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and Ukraine. He holds a degree in Politics and International Relations from Te Kunenga ki Pūrehuroa Massey University of New Zealand and a Master of Science from the National Technical University of Ukraine 'Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute'. His work blends scholarly precision with personal insight and a dedication to making complex subjects understandable, whether addressing the foundations of Russian imperialism, the dynamics of hybrid warfare, or how technology is transforming defence and resilience.