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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
World
Jedidajah Otte

‘My family’s rhetoric has become violent’: Russians on one year of war

A worker washes off graffiti in the colours of the Ukrainian flag in central Yekaterinburg, Russia
A worker washes off graffiti in the colours of the Ukrainian flag in central Ekaterinburg, Russia, last August. Photograph: Reuters

Vasili*, 30, who lives in Ekaterinburg and works in public procurement, is reflecting on life in Russia since the invasion of Ukraine a year ago. “After this strange year, Russians have got used to this war, in my opinion. Some lost loved ones in it, others have left the country, but generally life has returned to a relatively calm rhythm,” he says.

“There are no shortages in stores, the brands that have gone, such as Ikea, have been replaced by others – although it’ll take us some time to find out what the quality of these new brands is like. Events are held – although without European performers, which is a pity. People work, study.

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