It is difficult for ordinary Russians to understand the attack on Ukraine launched by President Putin, writes Russian correspondent Erkka Mikkonen.
Unlike the West, the majority of Russians did not believe that Russia could launch an attack. The Russians did not take the U.S. intelligence and other Western warnings that were reported in the media.
Instead, most citizens believed in the assurances of their country’s administration that Russia had no intention of starting a war.
Russia is trying to disguise its attack for self-defense. The country’s state media is not talking about an attack but a “special military operation”.
He claims that Russia has been forced into hostilities because otherwise the West and Ukraine would attack Russia – just as Nazi Germany attacked the Soviet Union in World War II.
Putin also talks about the “genocide” of the Russians in eastern Ukraine. No evidence has been provided, and the UN Secretary-General has also denied the allegation.
It is difficult for the Russians to understandhow Russia can attack Ukraine, which it considers a brother nation.
Despite the propaganda swallowed up by the Kremlin, many citizens oppose the war. Russian-language social media is filled with expressions of sympathy for Ukraine. People are publishing flags in Ukraine and demanding peace.
Putin’s decision to attack was made in a very small circle of insiders and came as a surprise to the entire Russian people – including those working in the country’s administration.
At the very end of his half-hour speech, Putin’s tone became louder. He insisted that the operation be carried out to completion at all levels. Finally, Putin said he believed in the support of the entire Russian people.
Ordinary Russians are following now ruble in value and await with fearful feelings how the West will respond to the Russian invasion.
The Kremlin has virtually disbanded the entire country’s opposition, blocked protests and taken over most of the media. Efforts have been made to silence the gravel against the war in advance.
Opponents of the war are calling on people around the country to demonstrate in the central markets of their cities. However, public opposition to Putin’s attack requires unprecedented courage on the part of the Russians.