As winter descends on Russia, a veteran of the Naval Infantry smokes outside Moscow’s Leningradski station, returning from a six-month deployment to the front lines. “Let the war end. We are all tired,” says Konstantin, a soldier since 1999, echoing a sentiment felt across the country as the conflict in Ukraine enters its fourth year.
A Nation Weary of War
In Podolsk, a suburb outside Moscow, the realities of the conflict are felt even removed from the fighting. Two elderly women, Valentina and Nina, debate the war’s origins and consequences. While Valentina blames President Putin for initiating the conflict, Nina repeats information from Kremlin-controlled television, stating “There is nothing left there.” For both, the war represents another tragedy in their long lives.
Despite the ongoing conflict, a recent Levada Center poll indicates that 66% of Russians believe 2025 was a “normal” year. This perception exists despite thousands of Russian deaths, rising inflation, corruption, and drone strikes within Russian cities. The discrepancy highlights a complex relationship between official narratives and lived experience.
Stalled Offensive and Diplomatic Impasse
On the ground, the front lines remain largely static despite significant casualties. Russia has failed to fully control the four regions it annexed in 2022 – Donetsk, Lugansk, Jersón, and Zaporiyia – and continues to struggle to hold smaller cities like Kupiansk and Pokrovsk, despite repeated claims of conquest. This Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled to meet with Donald Trump to discuss a 20-point peace proposal that Moscow has already dismissed as “unacceptable” and “radically different” from a previous 27-point plan.
Sources close to the Kremlin acknowledge that President Putin’s ultimate goal is to bring Ukraine under Russian control, exceeding mere control of the Donbas region or a frozen conflict. This ambition underscores the deep-seated geopolitical stakes driving the war.
Even within the military, fatigue is evident. Konstantín, a member of the elite Morskaya Pejota, anticipates the war will continue “at least another year or two.” Veterans, like Maxim Bájarev, a decorated soldier wounded in combat, express disappointment with the lack of societal support. Some ultranationalists are also voicing concerns about the prolonged conflict, warning of potential setbacks.
Shifting Public Sentiment
While 74% of Russians still support the invasion of Ukraine, a recent Levada Center poll reveals that only 31% favor continued fighting over negotiations – the lowest percentage in nearly four years. This shift suggests growing war weariness, even among those who initially supported the conflict. Sources within the Kremlin indicate that even within the elite, there is a desire for the war to end.
However, with Putin maintaining an 85% approval rating, his decisions largely dictate public opinion. He has, according to his own admission, grown accustomed to the state of conflict, stating, “When everything is calm, contained, stable, we get bored.” Despite this, a growing number of Russians reportedly hope for a resolution to the invasion in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current state of the conflict in Ukraine, according to this report?
The report indicates that the front lines are largely static with heavy casualties on both sides. Russia has not been able to fully control the regions it annexed and continues to struggle to hold key cities.
What percentage of Russians support the invasion of Ukraine?
According to a recent Levada Center poll, 74% of Russians support the invasion of Ukraine, but only 31% believe fighting should continue rather than seeking negotiations.
What is President Putin’s apparent attitude towards ending the conflict?
The report states that President Putin does not appear eager to end the war, having previously stated that he finds a state of conflict preferable to a period of calm and stability.
As the war continues, will growing fatigue and economic pressures within Russia lead to increased calls for a negotiated settlement?
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