Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized that the success of the ongoing military operation against Ukraine requires the entire country's population to work as one. He once again compared this war to the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War against Germany in 1941–1945.
Speaking at the "Small Fatherland — Russia's Strength" forum in Moscow, Putin recalled that during that era, the rear worked entirely for the front. According to him, at that time, not only military equipment but the entire society supported the front line.
“During the Great Patriotic War, the entire rear worked for the front, for our soldiers, for our defenders. But it wasn't just tanks, planes, cannons, and shells that were being produced,” Putin said.
Providing historical examples, Putin particularly noted that children, women, and the elderly also labored for the front—some knitted socks, while others sent packages and gifts.
According to the Russian President, this specific common unity was the primary factor for victory, and he believes a similar approach is necessary in the current situation.
“The success of our victories lies precisely in such unity. It will be the same now,” the Russian President stated.
However, a different trend is being observed in public sentiment. According to a survey by the Levada Center, 67 percent of Russians support the start of peace negotiations with Ukraine.
At the same time, the number of supporters for continuing military actions has decreased sharply to 24 percent—the lowest level recorded in the history of observations.
Surveys further indicate that the share of the population actively following news about the war has dropped to 44 percent. Meanwhile, media outlets note that Putin's approval ratings have also been declining for several consecutive weeks.
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