Russian elites are not willing to change their understanding of Russia’s position and the aggression against Ukraine, and society is not prepared for such a change, as propaganda continues to flood Russians with aggressive rhetoric.
This was stated at an analytical event by the Center for European Policy in Brussels by Lithuanian MEP Petras Auštravičius, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.
«I see no readiness on the part of Russia’s political and social elites to change their way of thinking. They continue the aggression as if nothing happened. There are no attempts to participate in negotiations. If you look at the war’s statistics, it is evident that they (the occupying forces – editor’s note) continue to attack wave after wave»
– Petras Auštravičius
There is also no public readiness for such changes in thinking, he added.
In Russia, people tend to display imperial aggression, demonstrating a “readiness to continue the war,” says Auštravičius.
Acknowledging that this is part of military propaganda aimed at demonstrating strength and resolve, the legislator also believes that for the Russian regime to agree to any ceasefire with Ukraine, society must be prepared for that moment.
Perspectives for Europe and Global Politics
Meanwhile, Auštravičius believes that Europe’s defense autonomy is inevitable.
Therefore, he believes that as many capitals as possible should realize this as soon as possible, “and not only in words but in deeds, investing in European security and defense, taking on more responsibility and talking about the war not only from the principled legalistic approach, but also being more realistic.”
“If we sit back and wait, events will come to us on their own and push us to the edge,” says the MEP.
Apart from Europe’s own role, he considers it important to persuade China to influence Russia so that Moscow listens to what the West asks or demands.
As Ukrinform reported, Ukraine’s representative to the European Union, Vsevolod Chentsov, believes that Ukraine, alongside countries such as the United Kingdom and Norway, should be included in a European defense union in the future if such an initiative is realized, and already now Ukraine plays an important role in defending the continent.
«Their actions show signs of criminal offenses defined in Article 345 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine “Threat or violence against a law enforcement officer” and Article 194 “Intentional destruction or damage to property”.
– Ukrinform
The relevant reports have been sent to the National Police.
In conclusion, analysts emphasize that changing public opinion in Russia requires systemic measures to curb propaganda influence and strengthen defense cooperation on the European continent, in order to ensure stability and security in the region.