Russians can no longer live as before: even Putin's supporters increasingly doubt the war

The daily lives of Russians are undergoing a profound transformation, with widespread disruptions becoming increasingly common. Reports indicate shortages of fuel and escalating prices are impacting citizens across the country. The pervasive presence of Ukrainian drones buzzing overhead further underscores the conflict's reach into Russian territory.

Even those who have been steadfast supporters of President Vladimir Putin are reportedly beginning to express doubts about the ongoing war in Ukraine. This shift in sentiment suggests a growing unease and questioning among segments of the population that were previously aligned with the Kremlin's narrative.

For a considerable period, residents of Russia's largest and most affluent cities were largely shielded from the direct consequences of the war initiated by Putin. This insulation allowed many to maintain a semblance of normalcy, even as the conflict raged on.

However, the current situation indicates that this protective buffer is eroding. The cumulative effects of economic sanctions, military mobilization, and the broader strains of prolonged conflict are now making their presence felt more acutely across Russian society.