By John Q. Hosedrinker 
President Biden’s decision to provide Ukraine with long-range missiles capable of striking inside Russia has elicited a furious response from the Kremlin. Russian officials, including Senator Vladimir Dzhabarov, have warned of a “serious escalation” and even “World War Three.” The Kremlin views this as direct NATO involvement, a red line previously established by President Putin. This action follows months of warnings from Russia against supplying Ukraine with such weaponry, prompting concerns about potential escalatory responses from Moscow, including retaliatory actions and adjustments to its nuclear doctrine.
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The outrage in Russia following recent events is palpable, a furious reaction to what many perceive as a significant escalation in the conflict. The sheer audacity of the situation is fueling this anger, a feeling intensified by the silence from President Putin himself. His continued absence from public commentary is only adding fuel to the fire, leaving many wondering about the Kremlin’s next move.
This outburst of anger within Russia stems from a feeling of betrayal, a sense that the rules of engagement, however loosely defined, have been violated. The belief that the actions taken are a direct consequence of previous Russian actions, is prevalent. This underscores a sense of injustice, a feeling that the punishment doesn’t fit the crime, at least in the eyes of those within the Russian sphere of influence.
The potential consequences of this escalation are a major cause for concern. Many fear a significant escalation leading to a wider conflict; The very real possibility of global conflict is driving the widespread panic. Some openly discuss the potential for World War III, a terrifying prospect that underlies much of the current anxiety.
A crucial element driving the Russian fury appears to be the involvement of external forces. The introduction of new actors into the conflict, changes the existing dynamic. The perceived violation of an unspoken rule fuels this anger, intensifying the sense of being unjustly targeted.
The Russian perspective seems to be rooted in a sense of being unfairly attacked. Many feel that Russia is simply receiving a dose of its own medicine, a taste of the pain and destruction it has inflicted on Ukraine. There’s a widespread sentiment that bullies, much like Russia in this instance, don’t like having their own actions mirrored against them. This feeds into the overall narrative of resentment and injustice.
The silence from Putin only amplifies the existing anxiety. His lack of public pronouncements is interpreted in various ways. Some believe it suggests a strategic calculation, a deliberate decision to remain silent while assessing the situation. Others speculate on potential internal struggles, suggesting a struggle to control the narrative or a deeper crisis within the Russian leadership.
The lack of immediate, decisive action from Putin is contributing to the overall tension. Some speculate that this inaction is a sign of weakness, while others argue it’s a calculated risk. Either way, the uncertainty surrounding Putin’s response only heightens the anxiety and anger in Russia.
The situation is further complicated by the range of potential outcomes. The most feared is a massive escalation on the part of Russia, potentially including attacks on Western assets, either within Ukraine or elsewhere. However, there is also the possibility of a less catastrophic resolution, with Russia claiming victory and withdrawing from the conflict. A third scenario involves a defiant response from Russia, coupled with a continued refusal to recognize the gravity of the situation.
The uncertainty breeds further frustration. The constant discussion about the risk of escalation seems to be interpreted by Putin as a sign of weakness, emboldening him to pursue more aggressive action. Conversely, any actual forceful response from the international community is minimized by Putin, solidifying his perception of impunity.
The breaking of promises and the reckless endangerment of Ukrainian civilians are particularly incendiary points. The targeting of civilian infrastructure, specifically power stations, is seen as a war crime, further fueling the global outrage and pushing the conflict further toward a dangerous precipice.
The overarching sentiment is one of frustration and a growing sense of impending doom. The escalating conflict is viewed with a mixture of fear and defiance. Many express a desire for a swift resolution, while simultaneously bracing for the worst. Many seem resigned to the inevitable conclusion that Russia will likely face severe consequences for its actions.
The silence, the fury, and the looming uncertainty create a volatile cocktail that threatens to ignite further conflict. While the world waits with bated breath for Putin to break his silence, the anger simmers beneath the surface, threatening to boil over into a much larger conflict. The hope for a peaceful resolution dwindles with each passing moment, and many fear that the world stands on the brink of a much larger and more devastating war.