Remember About the Russians Who Still Want to Do the Right Thing

To say that 140 million Russians stand by the regime and its war against Ukraine is not only a dangerous exaggeration but also a strategic mistake.

In response to Why Russians Are to Blame for Putin

Putting all Russian nationals in one box would be surpassing even Putin’s controlled polling agencies that give round numbers of support for Moscow. Moreover, it helps the Kremlin to unite the nation around the flag and pursue his personal goal of ultimate control of the society and expansion of Russia. Despite understandable emotions and deep grievances, Ukrainians should see an ally in the democratic and anti-war Russian movement, which can ultimately end their tragedy, if Putin’s regime falls. Even if it is not going to happen overnight, the battle for the hearts and minds of the Russian elite and ordinary people is to be continued.

Wednesday’s speech of Russian President Vladimir Putin meant the most aggressive call for societal mobilisation for war purposes since 24 February 2022 and the start of the Russian war against Ukraine. Putin announced that it is necessary to invest all resources into the conflict, despite the socio-economic problems and ‘fifth column’ inside of the society and regime that needs to be ‘cleansed.’