Nearly four years ago, Vladimir Putin declared a “special military operation” in Ukraine. Now, this conflict has lasted longer than Russia’s involvement in World War II, with verified combat deaths surpassing 186,000. That’s almost 13 times more than the losses endured in a decade-long war in Afghanistan.
The war has caused millions of Ukrainians to flee, while those who remain face harsh winters as Russian missile attacks target their infrastructure. But how has this conflict changed life in Russia since February 24, 2022? Al Jazeera spoke with people inside and outside the country to find out.
Life in Russia: A Changed Landscape
In areas near Ukraine, like Kursk and Belgorod, artillery strikes and drone attacks have become a normal part of life. Local resident Ben Higginbottom mentions how people have adapted to frequent attacks. “You’d never live otherwise,” he notes, highlighting a troubling acceptance of danger.
Despite the ongoing conflict, major cities like Moscow remain largely unaffected. Many locals express shock at rising prices, which have surged due to inflation and sanctions. Andrey, a Muscovite, shares, “Even a small shopping trip can cost over 1,000 roubles.” Yet, he also observes that families continue to enjoy outings, indicating a stark contrast between everyday life in the city and war-torn regions.
Brand availability has changed too. Kirill, a photographer from St. Petersburg, mentions that while some international brands have disappeared, others, like LG, have made a comeback. He also had to navigate payment restrictions by opening a bank account abroad, a hassle but not impossible.
Social media restrictions are another shift. Many platforms have been blocked, forcing people to use state-run alternatives. Kirill explains that this censorship frustrates younger generations, who feel their freedoms are being curtailed.
Changing Views on the War
Public sentiment about the war shows widespread support, but analysts warn that strict laws against anti-war expressions may skew the accuracy of polls. Vladislav, a young man from Saratov whose brother enlisted in the Russian military, reflects on his evolving views. Initially skeptical, he now justifies the conflict, influenced by propaganda and personal family history.
As time passes, individuals like Kirill feel jaded. He sees the persistence of the Russian economy and questions the narratives he once believed about imminent collapse. His feelings of disconnect are shared by many, as many Russians choose to focus on daily survival rather than politics.
A Deepening Divide
For some, the reality of war becomes undeniable. Alexander Medvedev, a 38-year-old trucker, found himself questioning the mission after experiencing the realities of combat firsthand. After witnessing the destruction, he ultimately decided to go AWOL, searching for peace away from a conflict he no longer believed was just.
Estimates suggest about two million Russians fled the country in the war’s first year, including people like Mike, who left Yekaterinburg for Berlin. Active in the local activist community, Mike feels disillusioned with both the West and the Russian opposition, questioning their effectiveness.
A Bleak Winter Ahead
As winter looms, many fear for Ukraine. Mike reflects on the humanitarian crises unfolding, stating, “Russia’s regime has shown its cynicism by targeting civic infrastructure.” The experience of war has reshaped lives, forcing countless individuals to confront harsh realities.
While many Russian émigrés aspire to return, rising anti-immigrant sentiments complicate their situations. Mike remarks, “Life is good here, but my immigration status weighs on me.”
Despite the complexities of this ongoing conflict, the stories of ordinary Russians showcase resilience, adaptation, and the painful consequences of war.
For more details on the impacts of the war, you can visit The Atlantic and BBC.
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News, Business and Economy, Conflict, Military, Russia-Ukraine war, Europe, Russia
