Vox Populi, Vox Dei is a daily column that runs on Page 1 of The Asahi Shimbun.
February 28, 2022 at 13:06 JST
A protester opposed to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is detained in a square in central Moscow on Feb. 24. (The Asahi Shimbun)
The ruble, the Russian currency, means something “chopped off,” according to “Monogatari: Ukuraina no rekishi” (Stories of Ukrainian history) by Yuji Kurokawa, a former ambassador to Ukraine.
Kyivan Rus, a medieval power in Europe, used silver bullion as its currency and a ruble referred to a cutout piece of the currency, according to the book.
The federation, with its capital in Kyiv, thrived from the 10th to 12th centuries and became the progenitor of Russia, Ukraine and Belarus.
Many Russians appear to be wondering why their country is attacking Ukraine, a “fraternal country,” so to speak.
Reports say protests against the war have erupted across Russia and that more than 1,800 people have been detained in about 60 cities.
It is surprising that an antiwar movement has emerged in Russia, where authorities harshly suppress dissidents.
A famous TV show host expressed opposition to the war by posting a black square on social media.
Disillusionment with Russian President Vladimir Putin seems to be driving the antiwar movement.
A creepy politician in the eyes of foreign observers, Putin has acted as a cool-headed and rational leader at home.
In invading Ukraine, however, he is apparently being driven by emotion, instead of reason, and his unique view of history.
In his speech, Putin said Ukraine was created by Vladimir Lenin (1870-1924) and is “an inalienable part of our own history.”
He closed the door on diplomacy and resorted to military power. No one knows whether he intends to go as far as dismantling Ukraine.
Putin, who has eliminated his political enemies, is unlikely to be easily unseated from power, even if he loses public support.
But he may regain his reason if the antiwar movement gains momentum at home and the international community tightens economic sanctions.
The value of the ruble has temporarily dropped to a record low level.
--The Asahi Shimbun, Feb. 27
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Vox Populi, Vox Dei is a popular daily column that takes up a wide range of topics, including culture, arts and social trends and developments. Written by veteran Asahi Shimbun writers, the column provides useful perspectives on and insights into contemporary Japan and its culture.
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