The Complexity of Public Opinion in Russia

The current public sentiment in Russia regarding the war in Ukraine reveals a complex landscape of opinions. While there exists a vocal anti-war minority that initially protested against the conflict, the majority of the population tends to remain loyal to Putin despite their dissatisfaction with the war. Many Russians are caught in a state of cognitive dissonance, perceiving the war as morally ambiguous yet preferring to avoid confrontation with the regime. This creates a precarious environment where the majority does not take tangible actions against the government, despite harbored discontent.