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

Join Kyrylo Cyril Kutcher — a Ukrainian New Zealander, researcher, and technology professional — for the launch of his new book Z Empire Unmasked: War at the Heart of a Fracturing World, featuring a foreword by Ambassador of Ukraine to Australia and New Zealand.

In his talk, Kutcher will introduce key themes from the book — from the political and ideological roots of war and the erosion of international norms, to how Russian imperialism and hybrid warfare function today — explaining why Ukraine remains in defence, why enforced ceasefires will not work, and how that defence tests the global order.

He will also reflect on the technological dimensions of modern war — how drones, AI, and satellite‑backed mobile networks have transformed the Russo‑Ukrainian war, driven innovation in the defence sector, and what that means for collective security, emergency response, and informed citizenship. Finally, Kutcher will share his call for action — what governments, educators, policymakers and individuals can and should do to build resilience, uphold international law, and defend peace. 

Paperback copies — a limited edition printed in Aotearoa — will be available with signing.

Speaker Bio: 

Kyrylo Cyril Kutcher is a Ukrainian New Zealander whose career bridges communication technologies, extensive global travel, and lived experience across Europe and Aotearoa. He is an internationally published author, with work appearing in the international affairs outlets of New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and Ukraine. Kutcher 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 writing combines academic rigour, personal perspective and a commitment to making complex issues accessible — whether explaining the roots of Russian imperialism, the realities of hybrid warfare, or the transformative impact of technology on defence and resilience.  

The event will be moderated by Boguslaw Nowak the Honorary Consul of the Republic of Poland in Auckland and NZIIA Auckland Committee member.