Moscow, the capital city of Russia, is currently experiencing a state of nervousness and apprehension due to the ongoing war with Ukraine. Even though patriotic events are being actively encouraged by the Kremlin to boost morale and unity among the people, the reality is far from the successes and progress portrayed on Russian state TV. The Russian military is facing serious challenges, having lost territory and lacking preparation for modern warfare. Losses are high and morale is low among troops on the ground. Additionally, there is a growing sense of anxiety among civilians due to recent events such as the mutiny led by Yevgeny Prigozhin and the plummeting value of the rouble.
Despite these concerns, there is a general sense of indifference and resignation among Muscovites. Very few people actively display support for the war, and there is little indication of “war fever” in the city. Furthermore, many individuals in positions of power also exhibit a pessimistic outlook about the future but feel constrained to go along with the flow due to the lack of opposition to Putin within the Kremlin.
Fear has become deeply ingrained in Moscow, and opposition activists face constant threats of arrest and persecution. The Russian government’s crackdown on dissent has led to the imprisonment or exile of many opposition figures. However, a small group of activists, such as Yulia Galyamina, continue to openly challenge the government’s actions and advocate for peace.
In the midst of this climate of fear and uncertainty, it is important to remember that not all Russians support the war. Many anti-war activists exist, and they continue to fight for peace and human rights. Their message to the Western world is that there is a substantial anti-war sentiment within Russia, and they believe that humanity will ultimately triumph over violence and conflict.
As the war between Russia and Ukraine continues, it is crucial to closely monitor the impact it has on Moscow and the wider Russian society. The ongoing conflicts and anxieties have the potential to shape the future of the region and have far-reaching consequences beyond political boundaries.
