In an interview with 15min, a British historian from University College London's School of Slavonic and East European Studies discusses Litvinism, a theory suggesting that Belarus represents the authentic Lithuania, and finds it easily debunkable through historical sources. He emphasizes that the historical region, characterized by its diverse population including Orthodox Christians, pagans, and later Catholics, was distinctly defined and known in different languages—Lithuanian as Lithuania, and Ruthenian as Litva. According to him, while the cultural and linguistic influences of the region were complex, dismissing the historical evidence supporting the identities of both Belarus and Lithuania is misguided.

The historian insists that both Lithuania and Belarus can be viewed as legitimate heirs of the Grand Duchy of Lithuania, as both nations share a historical connection to the central territories that were part of the Grand Duchy's expanse. He argues that this shared heritage should be recognized, despite the ongoing debates and national identity issues between the two countries. His research over the past three decades scrutinizing the historical ties between Lithuania and Poland underlines how these identities have evolved yet remain interconnected, shaping the contemporary political landscape.

The discussion surrounding Litvinism reflects larger issues of national identity in Eastern Europe, where historical narratives often inform modern geopolitical situations. Recognizing the shared heritage may help mitigate tensions and foster a dialogue between Belarus and Lithuania, both aiming to assert their identities in a post-Soviet context while dealing with external influences that challenge their narratives. The complexities of this intertwined history are essential for understanding the current climate in the region and the prospects for collaboration versus conflict.