Russian Life Under Drone Attacks: A Cultural Commentary

Irina Rastorgueva's essay in Süddeutsche Zeitung examines the psychological and material impact of Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian civilians. As attacks penetrate deeper into Russian territory, fuel shortages at gas stations and the proximity of explosions force ordinary Russians to confront the war's consequences. The piece questions the narrative of blame, implicitly challenging Putin's role. Rastorgueva, a Russian-born journalist and writer, offers a rare ground-level perspective on how the conflict reshapes daily existence and public sentiment inside Russia, blending reportage with cultural analysis.