Russian discontent rises as war strains health and economy
The latest research indicates that the conflict with Ukraine is adversely affecting the lives of many Russians. The number of Russian Federation citizens who feel the war's impact on their health, finances, and family relationships is increasing. Is society growing weary of the ongoing invasion?
For over a year and a half, the Russian invasion of Ukraine has persisted, with no resolution in sight. According to a survey by Russia Field in November 2022, for the first time, a majority of Russians (53 per cent) supported the immediate commencement of peace negotiations, while 36 per cent wanted to continue military actions.
Research conducted in April 2023 by the Institute of Social and Political Studies of the Russian Academy of Sciences, referenced by "Fakt", indicates that the war had a negative impact on the lives of nearly half of Russia's citizens (47.6 per cent). Nearly 23 per cent of respondents reported deterioration in physical or mental health.
An increase in current expenses was felt by 12.4 per cent of respondents, and 4.3 per cent admitted that their loved ones were killed or injured during the so-called "special military operation".
Job-related problems affected 2.8 per cent of respondents, with the same number noticing the disappearance of familiar imported goods. Family relationships worsened for 2.3 per cent due to differing views on the invasion.
Only 29.2 per cent of respondents said the war had not affected their lives. Concern about the risk of mobilization was expressed by 2.3 per cent of respondents, and 9.6 per cent admitted that their loved ones are involved in military actions.
The October 2023 survey by the Levada Center shows that almost one-third of Russians (31 per cent) are ready to support the return of all territories occupied since February 2022 to Ukraine to end the conflict. Nearly half of respondents (47 per cent) believed that the war has brought more harm than good to Russia.
Earlier research by Russian Field from February 2023 indicated that over one-third of Russians complained about a decline in their standard of living as a result of the war.
Mobilization does not meet the needs at the front. Ukrainian general has bad news
General Oleksandr Syrskyi, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, highlighted the issue of the country's insufficient mobilization capabilities. As a result, some military personnel previously involved in logistics and supply are being transferred to mechanized units.
General Syrskyi emphasized in an interview with Ukrainian television that there is a directive prohibiting the transfer of highly qualified personnel to the infantry, such as those who specialise in aircraft maintenance and cannot be replaced. However, he noted that frontline needs require an increase in personnel in mechanized brigades.
Unfortunately, our mobilization capabilities do not meet these needs. Therefore, we are taking steps to reduce our logistics, supply, and service components within reasonable limits. The staff knows these tasks, calculations have been made - PAP quotes Syrskyi.
