A screenshot of a message, allegedly from a citizen of the Russian Federation, is circulating on social media, complaining about oppression and "Russophobia" in Latvia. The author, who identifies himself as a railway worker with 28 years of experience, emotionally describes "language exams," "loyalty questionnaires," and a general feeling of hostility. "Fascists, let us live in peace!" he exclaims, expressing despair and misunderstanding of the situation.
At first glance, this may indeed evoke sympathy. An elderly person, who has worked honestly all his life, suddenly finds himself in a difficult situation, feeling unprotected and unwanted. Words about "nerves on edge" and "where to run" sound like a cry for help.
However, before rushing to conclusions, it is worth recalling the context that the author of the message seems to deliberately ignore. And this context is the bloody war that Russia unleashed against Ukraine. A war that began without declaration, insidiously and cruelly. A war that has brought death, destruction, and grief to Ukrainian land.
Isn't it strange that against the backdrop of thousands of dead Ukrainians, destroyed cities, and millions of refugees, the "cry from the soul" of a Russian citizen about "loyalty questionnaires" looks, to put it mildly, inappropriate? Isn't this an attempt to turn the situation upside down, presenting the aggressor as a victim?
Of course, one cannot argue that all citizens of the Russian Federation bear personal responsibility for the actions of the Kremlin. However, living in a country that is waging an unprovoked war, it is worth understanding that the attitude towards citizens of this country in other states may change. The requirements for loyalty and language exams in Latvia may not be "Russophobia," but a completely understandable reaction to aggression from Russia and an attempt to protect its own security and identity.
Instead of crying out about "fascists" and "Russophobia," perhaps the author of the message should reflect on the root causes of the situation. And instead of complaining about "oppression," show at least minimal empathy for those who are truly suffering from the actions of his state. Because a "cry from the soul" against the backdrop of mass killings often sounds like hypocrisy.
