Do Russians Still Consider Ukrainians Brothers?

It is often asserted that Russians and Ukrainians are brothers due to shared ethnic and cultural ties. However, the current geopolitical situation has brought this claim into sharp focus, with many questioning the sincerity and depth of these perceived familial bonds. This article delves into the historical and present-day context of Russian-Ukrainian relations and examines how these claims of brotherhood are challenged and contested.

The Claim of Brotherhood

The notion of Russians considering Ukrainians as brothers is rooted in historical and cultural ties. During the Soviet era, the idea of a common Slavic heritage was often propagated to bolster unity among the diverse inhabitants of the Soviet Union. This narrative was instrumental in justifying political actions towards Ukraine, with Vladimir Putin himself arguing that Ukrainians are a part of the 'great Russian nation.'

Supporters of this view point to the large number of Ukrainian refugees in Russia, which stands at over 6 million as of recent reports. Indeed, many Russians have family ties in Ukraine and vice versa, with intermarriage and shared ancestry being common. For example, the author mentions that his first wife was Ukrainian, a testament to the personal connections that exist between the two peoples.

Challenging the Narrative

However, the current conflict between Russia and Ukraine has significantly weakened this narrative of brotherhood. Critics of the Pan-Slavism and Russianism ideologies argue that these views often serve to justify conquest and colonialism, particularly during the times of the Russian Empire. This narrative has been weaponized by Russian propaganda to diminish Ukraine's significance and frame its independence as an aberration.

The Russian Holodomor, the man-made famine in Ukraine from 1932 to 1933, serves as a stark example of how such narratives can be harmful. During this period, millions of Ukrainians starved to death, with the Soviet government deliberately taking measures to suppress the Ukrainian population. This tragic event remains a significant catalyst for the Ukrainian national identity and sense of victimhood.

Furthermore, Russian actions throughout history, including the occupation and annexation of Crimea and the ongoing conflict in eastern Ukraine, have fueled tensions and undermined the claims of a shared brotherhood. Many Ukrainians view these actions as an existential threat to their nationhood and sovereignty, leading to asserting their distinct national identity.

The Impact on Russian Society

The current war against Ukraine has had a profound impact on Russian society. Vladimir Putin's strict control over the media and internet has led to a situation where free expression of opinions regarding the war is virtually impossible. This has created a situation where it is difficult to gauge the true feelings of the Russian population.

There are several theories about how Russian society is reacting to the war, including:

Russians may have internalized Putin's propaganda and are now actively hating Ukrainians. Russian society may be divided, with some people regretting the current situation and hoping for a resolution. Some may believe that Putin is destroying Russia in the process of the war.

On the Ukrainian side, even those who were previously pro-Russian have abandoned any fraternal feelings towards Russia. The war has brought to the forefront issues of national identity, sovereignty, and independence, causing a reevaluation of historical relations and familial ties.

Conclusion

The claim of Russians considering Ukrainians as brothers is complex and multifaceted. While personal and cultural ties between the two peoples are undeniable, the current geopolitical context has brought these bonds into sharp focus. The war in Ukraine has exposed the fractures within Russian-Ukrainian relations, with many questioning the true nature of this perceived brotherhood. The future of these relationships remains uncertain, as the conflict continues to evolve and impact both nations.