"We have gone from being friends to enemies," says one. “We used to share WhatsApp groups with Ukrainians. Now they have their own groups. Before there was no division. Now they blame us for everything."
There has been graffiti on the doors of Russians' homes, other graffiti denouncing Russians as murderers. Red paint has been thrown on the nameplate of the Russian consulate. Russian citizens say they have, for example, been banned from beauty centres run by Ukrainians and that their children have been excluded from extracurricular activities.
In schools, Russian children are being told: "You are Russian and Russians are very bad, you are killing people." Parents understand that this is not the fault of the children. "They only repeat what they hear from the adults."
Russians on the island are asking for the rejection to stop. They say that they don't agree with the war and only want to help the Ukrainian people.
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@dmartinfpro So, using same logic, are you then one of Boris's "accomplices"?
I too agree with Morgan, not all Russians are the same. However what about Putin supporters who live here. I know one lady who has a very nice life here and swears that Putin is the best thing for Russia whilst enjoying the life and freedom here. i passed on her details to this newspaper to get an interview but so far nothing.
After the invasion of Ukraine by Putin's vicious malicious animalistic forces etc. I know the WHOLE WORLD NOW HATE AND REJECT ANYTHING TO DO WITH RUSSIA.
Russian people should overthrow Putin, otherwise they're his accomplices.
the same happened in the 1930's, history only repeats. Evil grows when good looks the other way.
Well.....while i deel sorry for these pople......i am NOT surprised at this...? Are THEY...?
Well said Morgan. It is not dissimilar to Turkey. I refuse to go to Turkey, because of that other dictator Erdogan. Yet it is a beautiful country and by far the majority of people are very friendly. No doubt the same with Russians. I know several Russians. Ok, badly dressed, but super nice people. They hate Putin and what he has done to their country and now feel embarrassed to be Russian.
Far be it from me to ever defend Russia, but Russia and Russians are not always the same thing. Many Russians are fleeing Russia, mainly via Finland. And they're not exactly getting a warm reception there either. And they're just as destitute as the Ukrainian refugees. The rouble is worthless, their cards don't work, and not many are willing to help. Considering the atrocities Putin is committing, I can understand the sentiment. Really. But they're humans, just like anybody else. And it doesn't take long after they leave the alternate reality that Putin has manufactured in Russia for them to realise it's all delusional. Give them a break.