Four years into its full-scale war in Ukraine, Russia is feeling the effects
BBC World
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Four years into its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia is grappling with the far-reaching consequences of its prolonged conflict. The war has become increasingly costly, both economically and humanely, as evidenced by the growing number of casualties and the financial strain on Russian families. In Lipetsk, a town in southern Russia, signs of the war's impact are随处可见: recruitment posters offering large sums to join the army, murals honoring fallen soldiers, and emergency shelters erected due to frequent drone attacks from Ukraine. These elements highlight the toll the war is taking on ordinary Russians.
Steve Rosenberg, BBC’s Russia editor, visited Lipetsk and found that many residents are struggling to cope with rising utility bills and物价上涨. Despite their financial struggles, some locals, like Irina, a bus station ticket collector, continue to support the war effort by sending aid packages to soldiers. However, there is a sense of confusion among civilians about the purpose of the conflict. Unlike the clarity during World War II, known as the Great Patriotic War, many Russians feel uncertain about what they are fighting for.
The economic burden on Russia is significant, with budget deficits growing and the economy stagnating under sanctions and the strain of prolonged warfare. The war has also brought new challenges to areas like Lipetsk, where emergency shelters have been installed in response to Ukrainian drone attacks. This shift from a relatively peaceful past to a reality where sirens sound almost every night reflects the changing dynamics of the conflict.
The human cost of the war is evident in the numerous memorials and monuments dedicated to soldiers killed in Ukraine. These sites serve as reminders of the loss and sacrifice endured by Russian families, many of whom have lost loved ones in the fighting. At the same time, the presence of propaganda symbols, like a local pancake cafe featuring the letters "V" and "Z" associated with Russia's "special military operation," underscores the government's efforts to maintain support for the war among its citizens.
For readers interested in global politics, understanding the internal struggles and economic challenges facing Russia is crucial. The prolonged conflict not only shapes regional stability but also influences global perceptions of Russian leadership and the broader implications of its actions in Ukraine. As the war drags on, the human and financial costs continue to mount, leaving many Russians questioning the future and the true stakes of this ongoing struggle.
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on BBC World on 2/23/2026