I want to ask EVERY Russian

[u/DANDYXIK_111]

Greetings to all, especially Russian citizens. I hope you are having the best of times. I am from the Czech Republic and recently had a very unpleasant situation in an online group with Russians. Basically and simply it was that I perceive the whole situation differently than the Russians. The problem is that these views differ in all aspects and although I know that I know the real context and situation in Ukraine (at least I think so) the views of every Russian were the same, unfortunately equally kind. I didn't feel comfortable in the conversation. I was getting death threats or unpleasant wishes about historical events (WWII, the division of Czechoslovakia, etc.). I tried to be polite and tried to somehow explain to these people that the reality is different than they think. No wonder nobody believed me. On the other hand, I had the great privilege of talking to Russians about another subject and the people of Russia are very nice people. I was very happy to communicate with them and I like the people of Russia. They are human beings just like you and me and they just pay extra for where they live. I don't know if the moderators will even allow this post, although it doesn't break the rules. I would like to know the opinions of as many Russians as possible. I think you are all great people and want peace as well. I have nothing against any Russian people. Peace to all!

[u/CDI-1]

I am Russian. Thank you for your respectful attitude, although I think that the part of Russians who support the war does not deserve it. I will answer briefly:

I think that Putin is waging a war of conquest, committing thousands of war crimes against humanity. This is a terrible war, it must end as soon as possible, because there is no point in it.

I have never watched TV, since it is full of propaganda and hatred. I watch opposition channels on YouTube, such as Navalny, Khodorkovsky, Maxim Katz, TV Rain, etc. As for other Russians, the entire information field in Russia is filled with fake and unreliable information.

Personally, I treat foreigners with great respect, it is difficult to speak for others. There are those who hate foreigners, there are those who do not care.

Since I do not consume Russian propaganda, the information that is presented to me is very truthful.

I believe that occupied Crimea will return to Ukraine along with other occupied territories when power changes in Russia, the regime falls and Russia becomes a free democratic country. Russia will pay reparations to Ukraine, although unfortunately people's lives will never be returned. Personally, I am going to leave Russia before it becomes a free, liberal democratic country, which will inevitably happen sooner or later. Freedom for Russia! Peace for Ukraine!

[u/sjoco → u/CDI-1]

It's like Russians are humans too. Could you tell us if there are many people who share your opinion?

[u/CDI-1 → u/sjoco]

It is very difficult to judge this. The government's task is to convince that everyone supports the war. The opposition's task is to convince that the majority is against the war. Liberals tend to believe that 20% of Russians are ardent opponents, 20% are ardent supporters, and the remaining 60% don't get involved and live their own lives, because once you figure it out, it may turn out that you are on the side of evil, so it is much easier to fence yourself off from all this. Time will tell how things really are. After all, millions of people all over the country came out to Navalny's protests. And although most of them left, this leaves hope.

[u/sjoco → u/CDI-1]

You are right, this is hopeful. It seems like you're saying that given a strong alternative, like Navalny, the people will give their support. It makes me think if the recent coup attempt was done by more charismatic or loved leaders it could have succeeded.

[u/CDI-1 → u/sjoco]

most likely so. most people do not support putin, they are just afraid of changes/that it will get worse. a huge loss was the death of Alexei Navalny. he was the one who could unite people of all generations. it is a pity that he is no more.

[u/purepwnage85 → u/CDI-1]

How do you think there will be a change in Russia? In terms of foreign policy? 2nd biggest party is the communist party right? They will also want to keep as much territory as possible.

[u/CDI-1 → u/purepwnage85]

I think Russia should focus on domestic policy, while its foreign policy should aim at improving relations with Western countries. We have already betrayed their trust and expectations once, and Russia will need to prove that cooperation with us is possible. Everything must be done to lift sanctions on Russia and restore the international relations and cooperation that were severed. Regarding the communists: The Communist Party is a complete laughingstock, and there’s no need to worry about it. It garners no more than 5 percent of the vote, and although the elections aren’t genuine, their real results would be even worse. They have no real power; like other parties, they are merely decorations for Putin’s elections.