A recent sociological survey conducted by the Russian Field agency has provided new insights into how Russia’s military operation in Ukraine, often referred to as the “special military operation” (SVO), has affected the lives of ordinary Russians. The findings, released this week, reveal a nation grappling with economic strain, emotional toll, and shifting perspectives—though a significant portion of the population reports feeling unaffected.
Economic Pressures Top the List of Concerns
According to the survey, 29 percent of respondents identified the operation’s most profound impact as being on their incomes, rising prices, and overall standard of living. Russia’s economy has faced challenges stemming from international sanctions, supply chain disruptions, and inflation since the conflict began in February 2022. For nearly a third of Russians, these pressures have resulted in tangible declines in financial stability.
Meanwhile, 21 percent of those surveyed pointed to the operation’s toll on their mental health and emotional well-being. The prolonged conflict, coupled with domestic and global uncertainty, appears to have left a significant mark on the psyche of many citizens. Smaller segments of the population reported more direct effects: 9 percent said that close relatives or friends had participated in the military operation, while 5 percent cited a pervasive sense of instability and uncertainty.
Notably, 28 percent of respondents claimed that the military operation had no discernible impact on their lives—a figure that suggests a degree of resilience or detachment among some Russians, even as the conflict enters its fourth year.
A Divided Picture on Living Standards
The survey also asked respondents to reflect on changes in their quality of life over the past three years. The results paint a mixed picture: 41 percent of Russians reported a decline in their family’s living standards, while 47 percent said they had noticed no significant change. Only 11 percent indicated an improvement in their circumstances.
Demographic differences emerged in the responses. Women, young people, and older adults were more likely to report stability in their lives, while men and Russians aged 30 to 59 more frequently cited a deterioration in their family’s well-being. These findings underscore how the burdens of economic and social disruption may fall unevenly across Russian society.
Attitudes Toward the Operation: Steady, Shifting, or Sour?
When asked how their views on the military operation have evolved, a majority—62 percent—said their stance has remained unchanged. This consistency suggests that, for many, initial opinions about the conflict have hardened over time. However, 19 percent of respondents reported a more favorable view of the operation, while 14 percent said their attitude had worsened.
The survey revealed distinct patterns among those whose opinions shifted. Older Russians, particularly those over 60, along with frequent television viewers and individuals who expressed retrospective support for the operation, were more likely to report an improved perception. Conversely, those who wished the operation had never begun were more inclined to say their views had soured.
A Nation at a Crossroads
The Russian Field survey offers a snapshot of a country navigating the complex fallout of a protracted military engagement. While economic hardship and emotional strain dominate the concerns of many, a sizable portion of the population remains insulated—or at least perceives itself as such—from the conflict’s effects. Attitudes toward the operation, meanwhile, appear largely entrenched, with incremental shifts reflecting generational and ideological divides.
As Russia continues to prosecute its campaign in Ukraine, the long-term consequences for its citizens’ livelihoods and morale remain uncertain.
For now, the survey suggests a populace adapting to a new normal—one marked by resilience for some, and quiet struggle for others.
