One week after his release as part of a prisoner exchange between Russia and Western countries, Russian opposition figure Ilya Yashin appeared in front of crowds in Berlin, Germany.
When Western politicians ask me how they can support the Russian opposition, I say: save Ukraine from Putin and continue to support Ukraine. Because if you save Ukraine, you will help a free Russia".
The 41-year-old highlighted that ending the war in Ukraine is as important to him as promoting democracy in Russia, saying that he wished the Russian flag to be “freed from blood and dirt”.
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The released opposition activist rallied those listening to communicate with friends and relatives still in Russia, “even if it is difficult” as this was one of the few ways to change mindsets on Putin and the war in Ukraine.
According to Yashin, the war in Ukraine is no longer just a battle between two states. It is a battle between good and evil, a battle of freedom against tyranny. “Our strength lies in our convictions and our morals,” said Yashin.
Losing an expensive - in terms of lives and money - and pointless war is devastating domestically. Will anything really change? I don’t know, but there’s going to be a reaction.
Will people in Russia even be aware that they lost?