The article discusses Anders Mård's experiences as a Finnish citizen living in St. Petersburg, whose family life was disrupted by the outbreak of war in Ukraine.
Anders Mård, a Finnish journalist, has shared poignant insights into his life in St. Petersburg amidst the upheaval caused by Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine. In his recently published book 'Rysk dagbok – anteckningar om vardagen i Putins Ryssland 2022–2025', he reveals the emotional rollercoaster faced by him and his Finnish-Russian family since the invasion began on February 24, 2022. Mård's candid writing conveys not only the confusion and despair but also moments of relief when situations did not turn out as badly as feared.
The conflict has deeply impacted Mård's family's daily life, shattering their previously idyllic existence in Russia. As they navigate the unpredictable consequences of the war on their blended family, they cope with the psychological strain of constant uncertainty. Mård's reflections highlight the human experience of those who find themselves caught between two countries during times of crisis.
Despite the challenges, Mård's narrative emphasizes the resilience of individuals living under oppressive regimes, as he explores themes of emotional survival and the search for normalcy in a world turned upside down by war. His book, written in Swedish, may resonate with Finnish readers as well, indicating a broader audience for his accounts of life under Putin's Russia.
