“No to war!” became the mantra that took over social media as young Russians gathered in the nation’s capital of St Petersburg starting Thursday night.
This move was made following Russian President Vladimir Putin’s order of a military operation into Ukraine, following tensions between the two nations.
Citing that there was “no other option but to invade Ukraine”, Putin’s decision to open what is now known as Europe’s darkest chapters, have led to a rise in dissent amongst Russians.
In an interview with a mainstream media, one protestor said: “I have no words, it’s just disgusting. What is there to say? We feel powerlessness, anguish.”
The move to protest against the military operation, also echoed among municipal deputies such as from Moscow, St Petersburg, Samara, Ryazan and other cities, who urged citizens to not take part or stay silent, but adopted a different approach to the matter.
“We, the deputies elected by the people, unreservedly condemn the attack of the Russian army on Ukraine.”
“This is an unparalleled atrocity for which there is and cannot be justification.”
As waves of footage make its way on social media, we can expect that there will be more protests caught on video in the days to come.
Thus far, more that 1,800 people were arrested at rallies across the country.
Stay tuned for more updates.
Also read: Broadcast Journalist Goes Viral For Covering The Russian Invasion In 6 Different Languages
