Do Most Russians Support The War In Ukraine?

Peter Dickinson, Atlantic Council: Not just Putin: Most Russians support the war in Ukraine 

Amid the shock and horror of Russia’s Ukraine invasion, many have sought to blame everything solely on Vladimir Putin. As international audiences try to make sense of the unthinkable scenes currently unfolding in the heart of Europe, it is convenient to believe that Putin has simply lost his mind. 

There is something reassuring about the idea that the carnage in Ukraine is all down to the criminal insanity of one man. However, talk of “Mad Vlad” is a comforting myth that disguises a far darker reality. 

While the Russian ruler’s well-documented Ukraine obsession has been instrumental in sparking the largest European conflict since World War II, his decision to invade Ukraine was entirely consistent with longstanding public statements and foreign policy goals that are enthusiastically embraced by a clear majority of Russians. This is their war just as much as it is Putin’s.  

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WNU Editor: There was surprise and shock in the first days of the invasion. At least that was the impression that I got from my family and friends in Russia. 

No more now. Many are now quiet. Translation. They are not opposed to the invasion. And those who are voicing their opinions say they support it since it is now underway. 

Is this support deep? Will Russians continue to support the government even if everyday life becomes more difficult? And yes, life is going to get more difficult .... Russia sanctions: How the measures have changed daily life (BBC). 

My answer is a sad  (and heavy sigh) yes. 

Most Russians now see this conflict as an existential national security issue, and will adjust accordingly. They have also accepted that this going to be a long conflict, and that it is going to be very costly both in lives and resources. 

To say that I am disappointed and worried is an understatement. Even if the war ends tomorrow it is going to take Russia a decade (or more) to recover from the economic aftershocks of this invasion, and on the international stage even longer since it is now a pariah nation equal to North Korea. 

But as much as I worry about Russia, the real loser will be Ukraine. It is going to take generations to recover from this conflict, and I can easily see it being fractured into pieces .... something that even Zelensky warned against in his speech last night, and what observers are seeing on the ground right now in the captured/occupied areas .... Russia Deploying Members Of Notorious Ukrainian Police Unit In Occupied Regions, Official Says (RFE).

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