The refusal of Ukrainians to engage in any form of cooperation with Russians, including those who hold anti-war views, is a unique phenomenon with no direct parallels in modern history. The destructive aggression of Russia and the protracted war have eroded trust in the rationality of Russians, regardless of their stance and level of involvement in the conflict. Nevertheless, over time, this perspective has begun to shift, and today, discussions have already started in Ukraine about the possibility of collaboration with Russians who hold anti-war sentiments.
Throughout the armed conflict in Ukraine, Ukrainian national identity has become a significant aspect of self-identification. Kremlin's propaganda efforts, aimed at denying the existence of a Ukrainian nation, have led to a reciprocal rejection of "Russian" and "Russians" regardless of their political beliefs and views on the war among various segments of Russian society.
However, despite the enemy image being created, it is impossible to ignore the millions of Russians who oppose the conflict. The question of resources for victory and the future development of Ukraine leaves room for assessing the feasibility of interaction with "right," anti-war Russians. Is it possible? And how do Ukrainians perceive this possibility?