By John Q. Hosedrinker Poll: 77% of Russians support war in Ukraine
As a Russian living abroad, it is disheartening to read that 77% of my fellow countrymen support the war in Ukraine. It is difficult for me to comprehend how so many Russians can back a war that seems senseless and destructive. It reminds me of my father’s stories about how everyone in Spain supported Franco’s dictatorship until his death, and then suddenly they were all anti-Franco. It seems that blind support for political actions runs deep in certain societies.
I’ve often tried to discuss politics with my parents, but it is impossible to have a different opinion. They are not just brainwashed; they are aggressive protectors of the propaganda. It’s a sad reality that even though they claim me as a traitor for living in the US, they still prefer to believe in propaganda rather than listen to their own son.
The situation in Russia is concerning. People are obsessed with their beliefs, and nothing seems to affect or change their views. It’s a deeply ingrained mentality that is hard to break. And it’s not just my parents; it’s a sentiment shared by a significant portion of the population. With a population of 140 million, it’s difficult to see how this will end well.
The fact that 23% of Russians “fall out of windows” or are questioned by Putin’s Ministry of Love for not supporting the war is a reflection of the fear and oppression within the country. It’s no surprise that public polls or surveys are unreliable in such a regime. People are afraid to speak their minds for fear of persecution.
The international community needs to come together to expedite the process of change in Russia. It is clear that the Russian people have little compassion or respect for those who are not Russian. The situation in Mariupol is a testament to Putin’s design for lebensraum. It’s a dangerous ideology that needs to be confronted and addressed.
I find it ironic that Russians are supporting a war of aggression when their own country relies on conscripts to fight. Those who support the war should consider enlisting themselves if they truly believe in the cause. It’s easy to rally behind something when it doesn’t directly affect you.
The sad truth is that polls in totalitarian dictatorships like Russia should not be taken seriously. People are afraid to voice their true opinions and face dire consequences for doing so. It’s a rigged system where only those who support the regime can take up as much space as they need to spread their message.
In conclusion, the poll results indicating that 77% of Russians support the war in Ukraine should be viewed with skepticism. The oppressive regime, fear of persecution, and the spread of propaganda make it difficult to ascertain the true sentiments of the Russian people. Change is needed, and the international community must play a role in bringing about that change. Only then can we hope to see a shift in public opinion and a resolution to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.