The article raises the issue of the need to deconstruct the Russian historical myths with which Vladimir Putin legitimizes the war against Ukraine as a key element of lasting peace and security. It was pointed out that failure to take them into account by the international community contributed to the incorrect interpretation of Russia’s actions and underestimation of the role of Ukraine. For centuries, Russia has created an “empire of lies” that has stripped Ukraine of its history, heritage, and separate identity, and built the dominant Russian historical narrative. Even after the annexation of Crimea and the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russian myths continue to be prevalent in textbooks, books and even academic curricula in the West. If they are not deconstructed, Ukraine’s security will be at risk even after winning the war with Russia. The article indicates the need to change the perspective of the international community towards Ukraine and the need to know and understand its legacy, separate history, culture and identity. It is extremely important that researchers, historians, experts, journalists and the active part of society work together to counter the infl uence of Russian historical manipulation.