Russian dictator Vladimir Putin has once again demonstrated his disregard for human lives by calling war a “movement” (“dvizhukha”). In his recent remarks, he claimed that Russia supposedly gets “bored” during peacetime, and war allegedly helps it “move forward.” These statements are yet another testament to the cynicism and brutality of the Kremlin regime, which treats human lives as mere fuel for its geopolitical ambitions.
Putin’s so-called “movement” is marked by hundreds of thousands of deaths, millions of people wounded or displaced, and entire cities reduced to rubble. Lives have been shattered, and pain runs deep. But for the Kremlin, these tragedies are nothing more than a part of the “show,” designed to stave off monotony.
Putin’s Hybrid “Duel”: Rules That Don’t Exist
Another part of Putin’s speech focused on his preferred method—fighting under unfair conditions. He likened the war to a “duel,” yet the key principle of a duel—equality of arms—is entirely absent. His version of a duel mirrors the tactics he has used against political opponents inside Russia, from Anna Politkovskaya and Boris Nemtsov to Alexei Navalny.
This is a “duel” where one side is unarmed, and the other wields full control and deadly force. A similar scenario has been imposed on Ukraine: instead of an honest contest, the Kremlin resorts to sheer brutality. In this “duel,” Putin comes across as not only deceitful but also cowardly, as he would never dare face a real, equal confrontation.
The Cost of Putin’s “Games”: Destruction Instead of Progress
The war Putin markets as “movement” has brought mass death and irreversible destruction to both Ukraine and Russia. Millions of Russians have become hostages of their leader’s aggressive policies, while sanctions and international isolation continue to choke the country’s development. This strategy not only devastates Ukraine but also drags Russia deeper into dependence on authoritarian regimes like China and Iran.
Despite this, the Ukrainian people continue to fight for their freedom and future with extraordinary courage. The Kremlin’s so-called “movement” will leave little in history but a shameful record of its crimes.
Related Reading: Discover how the United Kingdom supports Ukraine in its fight for freedom: Strength of Allies: How the United Kingdom Stands with Ukraine.