Boris Nadeschdin, a former presidential candidate who has fled into exile, believes that there is currently no political future for the Russian opposition that stands in protest of the war in Ukraine. Speaking to the “Welt,” he asserts that “the prospect of the anti-war opposition legally participating in Russian elections is gone. It no longer exists.” Nevertheless, the longtime Duma deputy, who has been living in France for several weeks, adds that millions of Russians still wish for the war to end, and someone will inevitably step forward to represent their position.
Nadeschdin critiques the drop in Vladimir Putin’s approval ratings, which have fallen between 65 and 70 percent, stating that this is a poor figure for the leader of an authoritarian state. Moscow has designated him a “foreign agent,” but Nadeschdin counters that, “Authoritarian regimes are stable when everyone loves the leader. And that is absolutely no longer the case.”
The opposition politician argues that a large segment of the Russian population is neither strongly for nor against the war. He views this demographic as Putin’s key base, sustained by loyalty while the Kremlin guarantees economic stability and security. However, Nadeschdin insists that both guarantees are becoming increasingly uncertain. “Until 2026, this mindset worked. This is because Ukrainian drones had not yet flown into these people’s cities,” he says, adding that this foundation is now beginning to crumble.
Looking toward the parliamentary elections scheduled for September, Nadeschdin anticipates a wave of protest voters, particularly since the last anti-war party, Jabloko, is unable to participate. He notes that this anti-war sentiment will not disappear; instead, it will take a new form. Those who would have voted for Jabloko will either cast a protest vote (such as deliberately spoiling their ballot) or vote for “Nowije Ljudi” (New People). While he clarifies that the latter is far from an anti-war party, he believes it is the closest option to expressing a desire for peace compared to the other contenders.
