In a trendy restaurant in central Moscow, Russian data analyst Alexandra enjoys her dessert with a friend, determined to continue living normally despite the conflict in neighbouring Ukraine. Ten Muscovites interviewed by AFP assert their right to a “normal” life, avoiding directly addressing Russia’s offensive on Ukraine. Moscow has criminalized criticism of the conflict and thousands have been arrested since troops were ordered across the border in February 2022. Despite the conflict, Muscovites continue to go out, socialize, and work, striving to maintain a sense of normalcy in their daily lives.
The atmosphere in Moscow seems unchanged since the conflict began, with people going about their lives as before. In contrast to the situation in Kyiv, where nightlife is impacted by night curfews, air raid sirens, and military presence, Muscovites are seen enjoying bars and restaurants as usual. The Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow remains popular, with residents drawing parallels to World War II and emphasizing the importance of continuing to live life despite the ongoing conflict. Despite tens of thousands of deaths on the Russian side, efforts are made to ensure that daily life in Moscow remains relatively unaffected by the hostilities in Ukraine.
Russia’s forced mobilization of over 300,000 young men in 2022 had little impact on Moscow, as many recruits came from poorer regions instead of big cities. Victory Day celebrations in May do not showcase wounded soldiers or the impact of the conflict, maintaining an appearance of normalcy. While funerals of soldiers in the capital are low-key affairs, posters promoting enlistment and praising the courage of soldiers serve as reminders of the nearby conflict in Ukraine. The continued presence of Western brands in Russia further challenges the notion of a cultural, political, and economic rift between Russia and the West.
The conflict in Ukraine has led to rising prices in Moscow as a result of Western sanctions and high government spending on the offensive. Annual inflation remains high, affecting the affordability of goods and services for residents. Despite the challenges, Muscovites attempt to adapt to the changes, with cocktails and other items becoming more expensive as a result of the conflict. The conflict has also impacted daily life in other ways, such as disruptions in navigation apps due to partial jamming of satellite signals in the city following drone attacks. Despite these challenges, residents have expressed resilience and a sense of adapting to living in times of crisis over the last 30 years.
Overall, while the conflict in Ukraine has had some impact on the daily lives of residents in Moscow, many choose to carry on as usual, socializing, working, and enjoying leisure activities. The atmosphere in the city remains relatively unchanged, with efforts made to maintain a sense of normalcy and resilience in the face of ongoing conflict. Muscovites continue to live their lives, go out to restaurants and bars, attend cultural events, and adapt to the challenges brought on by the conflict, demonstrating a sense of determination to carry on despite the surrounding tensions.
