occasional reflections on culture & politics
Calling criticism “Russophobia” is a cynical distortion. The real Russophobes, the author argues, are Russia’s leaders—sending untrained youth to die, silencing dissent, and weaponizing culture. Defending Ukraine is not hatred; it’s moral clarity. True love for Russian culture means rejecting the regime that’s dismantling its soul from within.
The post traces how Russian identity has been distorted by authoritarianism, from the heroic legacy of Leningrad to the devastation of Mariupol. It argues that Putin’s regime has perverted cultural memory, weaponized history, and turned national pride into imperial aggression. The analysis condemns the use of propaganda to justify war crimes and calls for reclaiming Russian culture from the grip of violence and lies.
Russian public opinion is shaped by propaganda, fear, and historical trauma. The post explores how narratives of victimhood and imperial pride obscure moral responsibility. Understanding this mindset is key to countering authoritarianism and supporting democratic reform.
Russia’s cultural legacy—music, literature, art, science—is deeply intertwined with Western civilization. Rejecting Russia as culturally alien fuels geopolitical tension. Acknowledging shared heritage could foster cooperation and reduce paranoia. Political opposition to Putin must be distinguished from cultural exclusion.
Erratic Attempts 