Following strikes on Wildberries warehouses in Russia, Ukrainian readers shared their perspectives on the legitimacy and impact of these attacks in the context of the ongoing war.
Key facts
- •Ukrainian readers described the strikes on Wildberries as a response to the ongoing destruction of Ukrainian infrastructure, including oil refineries and civilian businesses.
- •Contributors argued that the strikes are a necessary measure to reduce Russia's economic capacity to sustain the war effort.
- •Many respondents drew direct comparisons between the current disruption in Russia and the widespread displacement and loss experienced by Ukrainians since 2022.
- •Several readers asserted that the legality of the strikes is secondary to the existential necessity of defending Ukraine against Russian aggression.
- •Respondents expressed that the strikes help bring the reality of the war to the Russian public, who they believe have largely ignored the conflict.
After publishing a selection of letters from Russian readers regarding Ukrainian strikes on Wildberries warehouses, Meduza received hundreds of additional responses from readers in Ukraine. These contributors discussed the morality, legality, and strategic purpose of targeting Russian economic infrastructure. Many respondents framed the strikes as a necessary response to the ongoing war, drawing parallels to the experiences of Ukrainian civilians since 2022.
Perspectives on Strategic Necessity
Many Ukrainian readers argued that the strikes are not a matter of legal debate but of survival. Contributors noted that Russia has targeted Ukrainian civilian infrastructure, energy sectors, and businesses since the start of the full-scale invasion in 2022. Several readers suggested that targeting economic hubs like Wildberries is a legitimate way to reduce the resources available to the Russian government for the war effort, while noting that these strikes have resulted in minimal human casualties compared to Russian attacks on Ukraine.
Comparing Experiences of War
Several respondents expressed that the current discomfort felt by some Russians due to the strikes is comparable to the conditions Ukrainians have faced for years. Readers described their own experiences, including evacuating homes, losing businesses, and living under constant threat of drone and missile attacks. Some contributors stated that these strikes serve to bring the reality of the war closer to the Russian population, potentially creating internal pressure on the authorities.
Rejection of Moral Equivalence
Ukrainian readers rejected the notion that Ukraine should adhere to a 'Jedi code of honor' while fighting an existential war. They argued that because Russia has consistently struck civilian and industrial targets without restraint, Ukraine is justified in targeting any facility that supports the Russian economy or war effort. Contributors emphasized that the primary goal is to defend Ukrainian freedom and existence, rather than to maintain an image of neutrality or pacifism.
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This article was independently rewritten by ManyPress editorial AI from reporting originally published by Meduza (English).
