How can Ukrainians and Russians Still Be Friends in 2025?  A Deep Dive Q&A

Since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, the relationship between Ukrainians and Russians has faced immense challenges. The war has altered identities, separated families, and created a significant geopolitical divide that seems daunting to overcome. Yet, even in the midst of conflict, questions emerge about the potential for friendship, reconciliation, and human connection. In 2025, can Ukrainians and Russians still foster friendships? This discussion delves into this intricate issue through a detailed Q&A format, informed by conversations with diaspora communities, social scientists, conflict resolution specialists, and those directly impacted by the war. 

 Q1: Is it appropriate to discuss "friendship" while the war is still happening?

A: This question strikes at the heart of the matter. Many Ukrainians feel that discussing friendship while their cities are under bombardment is insensitive, if not offensive. To them, true friendship can only emerge after justice, reparations, and accountability are achieved. Conversely, human connections often transcend political boundaries. Some Ukrainians and Russians particularly those from mixed families continue to maintain personal relationships despite their governments' opposing stances. Dr. Olena Khomenko, a Ukrainian expert in conflict resolution, expresses it this way: > "It’s not about ignoring the war. It’s about recognizing that peace will eventually come not solely through treaties, but through renewed conversations between people." 

Q2: What are the significant barriers to Ukrainian-Russian friendship in 2025? A: The barriers are profound and multifaceted:  Continued war and occupation: Russia maintains control over portions of Ukraine, and hostilities are still ongoing. This reality complicates any efforts at reconciliation.  Mistrust and trauma: Ukrainians have endured war crimes, forced deportations, and widespread destruction. These events go beyond political issues; they are deeply personal traumas.  Russian silence or support for the war: Many Ukrainians feel resentment toward ordinary Russians for their perceived indifference or even support of the war. Silence is often interpreted as complicity.  Misinformation and narratives: Years of propaganda from both sides have skewed mutual perceptions. Russians may not fully grasp what Ukrainians are enduring and vice versa.  Cultural rift: Since 2014, Ukraine has increasingly embraced a European identity, while Russia has taken a different route. The gap between cultures has widened. 

Q3: Are there still friendships surviving despite the conflict? A: Yes, although they are becoming increasingly rare and often strained. Some Ukrainians maintain communication with Russian friends who vocally oppose the war, while others have severed ties even with familyover differing views on the conflict. Kateryna, a Ukrainian journalist residing in Berlin, shared: "I stopped communicating with my cousin in Moscow. She told me it’s ‘complicated’ and that I should be cautious about what I read. I found that too difficult to handle. However, I still converse with my Russian friend in Tbilisi, who left Russia and openly supports Ukraine."  These enduring friendships are typically grounded in shared values rather than shared nationality. 

 Q4: How do Russians who oppose the war contribute to rebuilding trust? A: These individuals often serve as a bridge between the two sides. Russian exiles, activists, and intellectuals who have condemned the war and fled their homeland may be welcomed by Ukrainians though this is not universally true. Their role is sensitive. They can:  Elevate Ukrainian voices in Russian-speaking environments.  Engage their fellow Russians in discussions about the war’s impact.  Assist in creating post-war reconciliation frameworks focused on accountability and truth. Nonetheless, even anti-war Russians must navigate their roles carefully. As one Ukrainian political analyst remarked:  "Being anti-war doesn’t automatically qualify you as our ally. You must also be receptive to our pain and not center your own experiences." 

Q5: What might facilitate future bridge-building between Ukrainians and Russians? A: A few key elements could help restore human connections, although they are contingent on wider political developments:

1. Resolution of the war and withdrawal of Russian forces. Achieving peace is essential for any meaningful reconciliation.

 2. Justice and accountability. Investigating war crimes is crucial. Acknowledging not denying suffering is vital.

3. Honest dialogue and education. Recognizing historical injustices (from Holodomor to Crimea) and confronting propaganda are imperative.

4. People-to-people initiatives. When safe, programs that encourage interaction between Ukrainians and Russians especially among the youth can foster understanding. 

5. Cultural diplomacy and storytelling. Arts, literature, film, and theater can often touch hearts when political discourse fails.

Q6: Will future generations of Ukrainians and Russians be able to become friends? A: This aspect offers a glimmer of hope. History illustrates that former enemies can forge friendships again but it requires effort, truth, and time. Consider the reconciliation of Franco-German relations after World War II. However, Ukraine is not pursuing peace at any cost; it seeks justice, security, and sovereignty. The coming generation may carry the scars of conflict, yet they may also inherit the tools necessary for healing. Future friendships are likely to be built on shared values rather than shared history. 

 Is Friendship Possible in 2025? Yes, but with conditions. The potential for friendship between Ukrainians and Russians in 2025 hinges not on forgetting the past. Instead, it’s about selecting truth over falsehood, dignity over denial, and empathy over nationalism. For some individuals, that bridge may be irreparably damaged. For others, it is still being constructed. Whether these two peoples can ultimately traverse that bridge together will rely not just on political shifts, but on the willingness of individuals on both sides to truly listen and evolve.