Torn between their culture, their identity and the positions of the Kremlin, many Russians are openly critical. But, there are other sensitivities so between compatriots, we avoid talking about politics.

“First I tried to convince peopleLala explains, to tell them ‘no, you are not right to say that there are Nazis in Ukraine and that they must be eliminated’. But we disagree, I can’t convince them, because they think as they think.”

To form her opinions, Natalya drinks up information, which she receives from official or alternative channels, such as those of the opposition in exile or the foreign media.

Severing ties with Russia, both Natalya and Lala rule it out, but going back there for now too. “There is a very heavy atmosphere I believeLala explains, because people are afraid“.

“Every Russian policeman asks for your smartphone and pin code to watch social media postsadds Natalya. After that I can go to jail !”

Shaken by the conflict in Ukraine and the differences of opinion, the Russian diaspora in Belgium remains on its guard awaiting better days.