Voices from Russia: conflicting views on the Ukraine war

"Russia as a great country brings only victories and nothing else," said a Russian in a survey. YouTuber Vyacheslav Zaruski showed the recording. Some believed that starting the war made no sense. "They all end with negotiations, so why start them?" asked Maxim.

Vyacheslav Zaruski, a young Russian, decided to leave his homeland in 2022, just a few days before the Russian invasion of Ukraine began. He settled in Warsaw, where he is currently awaiting international protection. He gained popularity by running a channel on the YouTube platform.

In his materials, he presents the reality of Russia, comparing it with life in Poland. He often expresses a negative opinion about his home country. In his latest video, he presents the results of a survey conducted among Russians about the war with Ukraine.

Many believe that Russia is winning the war; however, the results were divided. 22-year-old Oksana said that the length of the conflict, lasting more than two years, "speaks for itself."

On the other hand, 21-year-old Leva noted that "according to the latest reports, we can say that we are on the winning path because we have already taken Bakhmut and continue to make progress on the front."

I think the Russian army is doing well in the special military operation [as propaganda called the invasion - ed.]. I am sure that victory will be ours," announced 19-year-old Margarita.

40-year-old Dmitrii clearly expressed his belief that "Russia must win" - to him, there is no other option. 20-year-old Aleksander holds a similar view, believing that "Russia as a great country, brings only victories and nothing else." Meanwhile, 29-year-old Anastasia confessed that by following the media, including television, she is convinced that Russia will win.

Many people are unsure who will win the war because the situation on the front is still changing. As they say, one day Russia has the advantage, the next day Ukraine does. "Things are dragging on; there are no solid arguments to say we are winning or losing," said 21-year-old Nikita.

37-year-old Mikhail confessed that he observes both sides of the conflict. "The whole world says one thing, and only Russia says another. So I draw conclusions for the majority. It looks like we are losing."

28-year-old Dilya believes the war is "fratricidal." According to her, it is a loss for everyone. 31-year-old Saldarat has a similar opinion and wants the war to end and everyone to remain alive and healthy. 55-year-old Lilya confessed that the Russian authorities continuously try to intimidate citizens.

"Money, power, pleasure, these are the things that drive people" - announced 34-year-old Maxim. He added that we have all already lost because people on all sides are losing their lives, which is the greatest loss. "All wars end with negotiations, so why start them in the first place?" - asked Maxim.