Drafts and going out of the country
The president of Russia, Vladimir Putin recently announced that he will now be drafting people to fight in the invasion of Ukraine. This is Russia's first draft since World War II. Flights from Russia to Georgia (the only available flights to another country) were soon after fully sold out. Russian citizens also started paying people to sail from the eastern tip of Russia to Alaska and many boat companies have profited off of that.
Convict freedom
Russian convicts have been offered freedom in exchange for the fighting in the war at the frontlines. If those convicts go rogue, the crime is punishable by death.
“I want to live”
The city of Kiev (capital of Ukraine) has launched the “I want to live” programme where Russian soldiers are offered freedom if they surrender, with a bonus if they bring military equipment. Speaking of the continued war, US president, Joe Biden said, ‘It will bring a catastrophic loss of life’.’It is barbaric’ agreed the European Union.
From little Russia to Ukraine
The term ‘Little Russia’, which traces its origin to medieval times, was once widely used as the name for the geographic territory. The first appearance of the name Ukraine was in 12th-century chronicles. It was used sporadically from the mid-17th century until it was reintroduced in the 19th century by several writers making a conscious effort to awaken Ukrainian national awareness. But it was not until the 20th century when the modern term Ukraine started to prevail, while Little Russia gradually fell out of use.
“Vladimir Putin’s war”
When Russia launched its invasion of Ukraine on February 24, Western governments, including the United States immediately condemned what they described as “Vladimir Putin’s war.” Surely, this formulation was no accident. It was aimed, first and foremost, at drawing a distinction between the actions of the Kremlin and the attitudes of ordinary Russians. The question now is where will Putin take it next?
By Alexander K and Elspeth L, Year 7
Rodney Foliente, U.S. Army - http://www.army.mil/-images/2008/12/11/27019/
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