The emergence of modern Russia from the ashes of the Soviet Union marked the beginning of a profound and complicated journey towards establishing a cohesive national identity. As Russia grappled with the contradictions of its past while striving for integration with the West, the quest for identity took many twists and turns. The landscape of this search has been irrevocably altered by the ongoing Ukraine War, which has galvanized much of the Russian populace behind a set of national ideas.
Initially, when Boris Yeltsin assumed power as the first post-Soviet president, he attempted to sever ties with the communist legacy, leading to a national sentiment characterized by a negative identity. This struggle cast a long shadow over Russia’s cultural and political landscape. When Vladimir Putin came to power, he offered a more optimistic vision, one that sought to forge a relationship with the West, albeit on terms that respected Russia’s sovereignty. However, fundamental differences soon derailed this vision, culminating in a hardening of attitudes on both sides.
Over time, the need for a collective identity became increasingly pressing as Russia faced external opposition. The memory of World War II emerged as one possible unifier. Throughout the years, pride in the “Great Patriotic War” became a central theme in Russia’s national narrative, portrayed almost as a religious tenet within political discourse. This pride, however, was often juxtaposed against a backdrop of a more apathetic public response to other identity-building narratives, resulting in an inconsistent character of national coherence.
The unexpected onset of the war in Ukraine initially met with disbelief among Russians. The rapid shift from skepticism towards support illustrates a profound transformation. The once divided sentiments began to consolidate, partially fueled by state propaganda that depicted Russia’s survival as a triumph against Western hostility. Increased anti-Western sentiment became prevalent, notably as many ordinary Russians internalized a narrative that framed the West as hostile and dismissive of Russian culture.
Amid this new national identity, a distinctive strain of patriotism has materialized. Recruitment for military service has escalated, driven in part by promises of high wages. The “Help the Army” movement, largely composed of women and pensioners, gained traction, reflecting a societal shift where dissent against state objectives became not just socially unacceptable, but also dangerous. Viewing the war as defensive, many Russians united around a political narrative that necessitated solidarity against perceived external threats.
The Kremlin’s narrative of national security has resonated deeply, and even accountability for state failures has been reframed in a context of collective resistance against an external enemy. Civilians have been drawn into the narrative through personal accounts that humanize the war’s implications, creating a shared sense of insecurity that unites disparate parts of the population.
The conflict has not only been a crucible for national identity but has also ignited economic dynamism even under severe sanctions. Russia saw sustained economic growth despite the sanctions’ pressures, fostering a climate of optimism regarding technological advancement and innovation. Similar to how World War II spurred rapid industrial progress, the current war has prompted increased creativity in industries, showcasing a collective endeavor driven by necessity.
The social contract between Russian citizens and their government highlights a preference for state-supported policies, such as public investments and affordable utilities. This framework has led many Russians to perceive social conditions in the West as inferior, further cementing a sense of Russian exceptionalism that intertwines with national identity.
Interestingly, a cultural renaissance is unfolding alongside these developments. The initial shock of cultural exclusion from the West prompted many Russians to rediscover their own artistic heritage. With new theaters, exhibitions, and artistic ventures blooming in major urban centers, Russian culture is experiencing a revival spurred on by a growing demand for localized content. Trips within the country became a popular trend during the COVID-19 pandemic, buoying domestic tourism.
The exodus of prominent cultural figures has notably impacted public sentiment. While their departure stirred discontent among the educated elite, it inadvertently cleared a path for emerging artists and entertainers who now find space within the domestic cultural landscape. Figures like “Shaman” and others have gained acclaim, drawing attention to the evolving dynamics within the country’s cultural fabric.
As cultural figures abroad wrestle with the dislocation of their careers, a sense of derision for their struggles has taken root domestically. The prevailing narrative suggests that those who left with the hope of gaining recognition in the West miscalculated their prospects. This shift has led to a growing emphasis on valuing Russian cultural outputs, irrespective of global influences.
Lastly, the current climate reflects a rejection of ‘woke’ ideologies, presenting Russia as a bastion of traditional values in stark contrast to contemporary Western culture. This has struck a chord even among liberal Russians who feel disillusioned by the changes in Western society, fostering a sense that Russia is reclaiming its cultural sovereignty.
As Russia stands today, it is a country transformed—imbued with a newfound cohesion and confidence that may reshape its national identity in the long term. In the immediate term, this resilience is likely to sustain the public’s willingness to continue supporting the war, marking a critical juncture in the ongoing narrative of Russian identity.