Understanding Russian National Will

The strength of Russia’s national will to fight is deeply rooted in historical and cultural factors, including trauma, nationalism, spirituality, and fatalism. Russian culture emphasizes a long-standing sense of suffering and survival, reflecting on significant historical traumas, such as the collapse of the Soviet Union and conflicts like Chechnya. This historical context feeds into a nationalism that views the nation as a cohesive entity deserving strong military influence on global affairs. Additionally, spirituality, particularly through the Russian Orthodox Church, instills a sense of duty to the state, contributing to the overall resilience of Russians in the face of adversity.