A recent survey conducted by the Ukrainian NGO LingvaLexa revealed that almost 70% of Russian prisoners of war (POWs) view the ongoing war against Ukraine as justified and necessary. This survey highlighted the impact of propaganda on the perceptions of these soldiers, with about 88% of strong believers in Russian propaganda considering the war justified to some extent. In contrast, even among those who do not subscribe to Russian propaganda, a majority—51%—still regard the war as justified.

Additionally, the study found that over 40% of captured Russian troops expressed a dehumanizing view of Ukrainians, indicating a stark perception that undermines the humanity of the adversary. This perspective on legitimacy was rated at an average of 35.81%, suggesting that while many may see the conflict as legitimate, the rationale behind this belief could be significantly influenced by the propaganda narratives that permeate Russian media and society. This underscores the challenges faced in addressing the psychological impacts of such narratives on soldiers.

The implications of this survey extend beyond the POWs themselves; they highlight the entrenched belief systems within the Russian military ranks regarding the war. The findings may complicate the potential for dialogue and reconciliation post-conflict, as deeply held beliefs are often resistant to change, especially when reinforced by military propaganda. Understanding these mindsets will be crucial for both Ukraine and international observers in strategizing future peace efforts.