How the Life of Ordinary People in Russia Has Changed After Four and a Half Years of War

After nearly five years of war, life for ordinary citizens in Russia has undergone noticeable changes, though many still go about their daily routines with little outward disruption. In Moscow, wide avenues remain lined with luxury stores, restaurants stay packed, and people continue their regular errands. Despite thousands of Western companies leaving the country and over 27,000 sanctions imposed, capital has found new routes. Western brands have been replaced by local alternatives, McDonald's has been substituted by Vkusno i Tochka, Starbucks has become Stars Coffee, and payment systems such as Visa and MasterCard have been swapped with Chinese counterparts. Western products fill shelves under different names or through intermediaries, except for technology and fashion, which remain largely inaccessible. Citizens experience the effects of sanctions differently. Some claim they feel nothing, while others point to higher prices, reduced choices, restricted travel, and the departure of Western retailers. One resident noted, “Food has gotten more expensive, eggs are at least twice as costly.” Another added, “There are now many new Russian brands. That’s better for us.” The first major attacks on Moscow served as a reminder to residents that the war is becoming increasingly tangible for them. Frequent flight cancellations, difficulties in sending money abroad, and growing disruptions in mobile internet service have become common. Many applications have been blocked, except those on the so-called white list. Authorities justify these disruptions by citing drone attacks aimed at complicating navigation. While some residents accept this explanation, others remain unconvinced. One Moscow resident remarked, “The state is at war. If it comes down to questions of public safety, I don’t mind.” The cultural landscape has also shifted, with military symbolism increasingly integrated into everyday life. This trend is evident both in Moscow and other cities, including St. Petersburg, Russia’s second-largest city. Military themes now feature prominently in urban settings, from newly constructed attractions to traditional parades. Museums and galleries have begun incorporating exhibits related to current conflicts, such as the Museum of Victory in Moscow, where displays include drones, uniforms, and personal items from recent battles. Even in areas traditionally associated with European heritage, such as St. Petersburg, military history is being recontextualized within contemporary narratives. One resident observed, “There are many museums and theaters. Unfortunately, there are fewer international performers these days. But that will pass.” In contrast, the lives of residents in border regions have been more directly affected by the war. Areas like Belgorod, frequently targeted by Ukrainian strikes, face frequent power outages, water cuts, and heating failures during winter months. Former Governor of Belgorod Region Vyacheslav Gladkov described the situation as one where “war has entered people’s lives and reached every corner of their souls.” Schools, hospitals, and other essential services have been disrupted, highlighting the broader impact of the conflict beyond just economic factors. Meanwhile, domestic tourism has increased, albeit at a higher cost. With international travel limited, many Russians have turned to exploring their own country. This shift reflects both necessity and a growing sense of national identity amid ongoing hostilities. As the war continues to reshape daily life, its influence extends far beyond politics and economics, touching aspects of culture, commerce, and personal experience. For many, the war is no longer a distant reality, it is part of their lived reality, shaping how they live, work, and interact with the world around them.