Is Minsk in Russia? Green Party MP’s University Challenge answer sparks backlash
Carla Denyer answered Minsk to a question about a ‘Russian city’. Image Credit: BBC Two
A surprising moment on BBC Two’s University Challenge Christmas special has reignited debate over geographical awareness in Eastern Europe after a team led by Green MP Carla Denyer incorrectly identified Minsk as a Russian city.
The incident, which quickly gained traction online, has drawn criticism due to its timing, coming amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, where distinctions between Russia, Belarus, and Ukraine carry deep political and historical significance.
What Happened on University Challenge?
During a bonus round focused on significant ice-free ports, host Amol Rajan asked contestants to identify the Russian city founded on the Kola Peninsula to serve as a naturally ice-free seaport.
As the Durham University alumni team conferred, journalist Sophia Smith Galer questioned whether Minsk was part of Russia. Former BBC presenter Tracey MacLeod echoed the suggestion, prompting team captain Carla Denyer to submit Minsk as the answer.
Rajan immediately corrected them, laughing as he explained:
“Minsk is the capital of Belarus. It’s Murmansk that we’re after.”
Despite the error, Denyer’s team went on to win the semi-final, advancing to the final against Keble College, Oxford.
Why Minsk Is Not in Russia
Minsk is the capital and largest city of Belarus, a sovereign Eastern European nation bordered by Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia. While Belarus is politically aligned with Moscow under President Alexander Lukashenko, it is not part of Russia.
The confusion between Minsk and Murmansk, the correct answer, highlights a recurring issue in Western discourse: the misrepresentation of Eastern European geography, particularly during a period of heightened geopolitical tension.
Political Context Fuels Online Backlash
The moment triggered criticism online, not merely as a quiz error, but as a symbolic misstep given Denyer’s outspoken stance on the Ukraine war.
Denyer, who served as Green Party co-leader from 2021 to 2025 and is now MP for Bristol Central, has repeatedly urged stronger UK action against Russia. She has called for tighter sanctions and continued support for Ukraine, stating that peace negotiations must prioritize Ukrainian sovereignty, not decisions imposed by Moscow or foreign powers.
For critics, the Minsk mistake appeared jarring against that backdrop, raising questions about political literacy concerning the region.
READ ALSO
Kyiv under fire as Russia launches Massive Strike ahead of Trump-Zelensky Peace Talks
Minsk’s Strategic Importance in Eastern Europe
Minsk has long played a pivotal role in Eastern European politics. It has hosted peace talks, served as a logistical hub, and remains central to Belarus-Russia relations, particularly since Belarus allowed Russian troops to stage operations from its territory during the Ukraine conflict.
Understanding where Minsk stands, geographically and politically, is crucial to grasping the broader dynamics of the region.
University Challenge and “Dumbing Down” Claims
The episode also revived ongoing criticism of University Challenge, with some viewers accusing the programme of “dumbing down” its questions. Others defended the show, pointing out that high-pressure environments can lead to momentary lapses, even among accomplished contestants.
Nevertheless, the Minsk mix-up stood out due to its basic geopolitical nature rather than obscure trivia.
Why the Moment Resonated Beyond Television
In isolation, the error may have been a harmless quiz slip. But in today’s climate, where maps, borders, and national identities are contested and weaponised, such mistakes resonate far beyond entertainment.
For many viewers, the moment underscored the importance of accurate geographical knowledge, especially among public figures commenting on international affairs.
FAQ
Is Minsk in Russia?
No. Minsk is the capital of Belarus, an independent country in Eastern Europe.
Why did Minsk come up on University Challenge?
It was incorrectly given as an answer during a question about Murmansk, a Russian ice-free port city.
Who made the Minsk mistake?
The answer was given by a University Challenge team led by Green MP Carla Denyer.
Why are people upset about the mistake?
The error occurred amid the Russia-Ukraine war, where confusing Belarus with Russia is seen as politically insensitive or uninformed.
What is Minsk’s political significance?
Minsk is central to Belarusian governance and has played a role in regional diplomacy and Russia’s military positioning.
Is Belarus part of Russia?
No. Belarus is a sovereign nation, though it maintains close political and military ties with Russia.
What was the correct answer on the show?
The correct answer was Murmansk, a Russian city on the Kola Peninsula.