I’m writing this post in English so that it could be shared among wider audience, beyond the borders of my usual circle for which these thoughts are not new at all.
I suspect that most people not born in the countries of the former USSR do not understand the gravity of situation around Ukraine, as they have no idea to which level Russian propaganda is vile and soul-deforming. I am a Russian citizen myself, my family is there; also, since the start of the full-scaled invasion, I’ve been working with Ukrainian refugees, including those who escaped the occupied territories.
Let me be perfectly clear on one thing. Surrendering “for peace and negotiations” is not an option here. It means death and torture of HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS of civilians. It also means national and ethnic identity erased. It also means Hitlerjugend-like indoctrination of children.
What do you think occupying forces will do (and already do) to people showing any sign of Ukrainian patriotism? Having a “wrong” tattoo? Do you know how many people with such “wrong” tattoos – with Ukrainian sigils, flags, folk ornaments, quotes - are living in Ukraine? How many people raise their children in Ukrainian?
All these people will be gone as soon as Russia gets to them. They will be imprisoned, tortured, sent for labor camps, their kids will be taken away and retaught the way Russia likes. I am not exaggerating, it IS happening already to the occupied territories.
And yes, if Russia succeeds in Ukraine, there is a list of countries that will be next.
The only peace option is pushing Russia to get its army as far from the internationally recognized borders of Ukraine as possible. Any means to do it is good. Peace talks with Russia are only possible from a position of military superiority.