Russian citizens are tired of the war – and today there is more evidence of this: a poll published by an independent polling institute based in Moscow reveals that the most troubling question for citizens concerns the end of the Russian invasion.
Putin visits Abu Dhabi | Reuters
In a survey by the Levada Institute, citizens were asked what they would like to ask President Vladimir Putin on the "direct line," an annual event broadcast on television channels and radio stations. 21% said they would ask "when will peace come", "when will the 'special military operation' end" (as Russia calls the invasion), "what will we do to end the operation" or "when will the draft end". In second place – and for a big time – came questions about the reduction of the old-age pension (8%) and other socioeconomic questions (quality of public healthcare, housing problems, level of education, etc.).
A civilian holds a sign reading "No to unlimited mobilization" in Moscow, November 7, Photo: AP
These figures join the independent Russian Field survey, which found in mid-November that the proportion of Russians interested in ceasefire negotiations eclipsed those interested in continuing the war with Ukraine for the first time. A ceasefire was supported by 48% of respondents, while 39% supported the continuation of the fighting. 58% of Russians oppose another wave of mobilization, only 32% support.
The blue line represents the percentage of supporters of the ceasefire, the red line - those who support the continuation of the fighting, photo: Russian Field
The findings join the unrest that has developed in recent weeks: relatives of the recruits are demanding that their husbands, fathers, brothers and sons be brought home. Women across Russia are not opposed to the war with Ukraine, but are simply demanding at least a rotation and bringing the men of the family home, after more than a year of service. The women often asked to hold demonstrations, but their requests were rejected by the authorities on grounds such as the danger of coronavirus. Only in one case did the women get a meeting with local officials, which was also closed.
The Kremlin is concerned about the protests, which are not comprehensive but come at a bad time: four months before a presidential election whose results should show broad support for Putin. This is one of the reasons why the authorities have started offering women silence money in the form of increased payments. Another means of combating protest is to delegitimize it through propagandists or bots. Thus, the Telegram channel of the wives of the recruits on Telegram was defined as "fake" after orchestrated pressure.
Putin and UAE President Ben Nahyan scan the guard of honour, Photo: AP
The Russian ruler himself arrived in the United Arab Emirates today for talks with President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Later he will visit Saudi Arabia. It is only Putin's second trip outside the former Soviet republics since he invaded Ukraine. The previous trip was to China.
Russian warplanes escort Putin's plane to Abu Dhabi, Photo: Reuters
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