Kathrine Frich
History appears to be repeating itself in Russia.
History appears to be repeating itself in Russia.
Russia Faces a New Wave of Anti-War Protest
Women across the country, mothers, wives, and daughters, are quietly protesting against the military draft.
These protests echo earlier movements from 1989 and 1995, when women’s voices helped change the course of two brutal wars.
But this time, they face a state that is far more repressive and determined to silence them.
From Soldiers’ Mothers to ‘Extremists’
In the 1990s, the Union of Committees of Soldiers’ Mothers was a respected voice.
They questioned losses, training, and the human cost of war. Now, the group operates under threat.
Since 2014, some branches have been branded as “foreign agents” or even terrorists, effectively outlawing their activism.
The ‘Road Home’ Movement Gains Momentum
When mass mobilization began in 2022, a new movement emerged: “Road Home.”
Fueled by Telegram channels and online organizing, it rapidly gained tens of thousands of followers.
Women held silent protests at symbolic locations like the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, trying to raise awareness without triggering arrests.
The Kremlin’s Crackdown on Grief and Dissent
Authorities have responded with surveillance, arrests, and intimidation.
Women are stopped by police and searched near protest sites.
Their belongings are checked for flyers or signs. Even standing in silence can lead to detention under vague laws about “unauthorized gatherings.”
One Question Too Many = Extremism
Amnesty International has raised the alarm over new Russian laws that allow online groups to be labeled “extremist” based on the actions of just one member.
In practice, this means that even discussing the war’s toll or asking about missing soldiers can lead to criminal charges.
“We Are Not Politicians. We Are Mothers.”
A woman who spoke to independent media put it simply: “We are not politicians. But if the state takes our children and hides the truth, we must ask questions.”
These protests aren’t ideological, they are personal. Many are driven by fear, unanswered questions, and desperation.
No Answers, Just Propaganda
Mothers demanding basic information, where their sons are, how they’re being treated, whether they’re alive, are met with cold silence or propaganda.
Officials cite “military secrecy,” refer families to generic press releases, or deny the scale of the casualties altogether.
Kremlin-Approved “Resistance”
To control the narrative, the Kremlin has funded alternative groups like “Women’s Rear.”
These state-approved organizations support the war effort, collect aid for soldiers, and publicly “ask questions”, but only the ones the government wants to answer.
Their goal is to show that “the people” are on board.
