Performing geopolitics of toponymic solidarity: The case of Ukraine

Abstract

ABSTRACT The aim of the article is to elucidate the symbolic function of the underexplored geopolitically motivated phenomenon of toponymic solidarity. Based on the critical toponymic approach and the theories of political performativity, the authors examine the toponymic solidarity with Ukraine as a powerful spatial-political technology that emerged globally following the ongoing full-scale Russo-Ukrainian War in 2022. Drawing upon empirical data from media resources, archival materials, and in-situ observations, they unveil the geopolitical role of performative toponymic solidarity as a form of symbolic toponymic gifting both worldwide and in Ukraine. Concomitantly, two collateral spatial processes are revealed, including toponymic gratefulness as a reciprocal co-performance in Ukraine and toponymic retaliation as a counter-performance in Russia. In conclusion, the article advances the political toponymy literature by expanding the performative understanding of space through the lens of geopolitical place naming/renaming practices of toponymic solidarity.