Politiken discusses the impact of the war in Ukraine on the lives of Russian citizens, as illustrated by the story of Jelena, a single mother from the outskirts of Moscow. She shares her difficulties in managing her household expenses, noting that prices for basic necessities, like food and electricity, have surged significantly. Despite receiving a salary increase of 35% last year, Jelena finds that it hasn't kept pace with the inflation that has accumulated over the past four years, highlighting the severe economic strain that families are currently facing.

Jelena's situation is further compounded by her responsibilities as a mother of two. She has been forced to cut back on personal expenses and has even enlisted her mother to move in and help care for her children, illustrating the lengths families are going to in order to support one another during these challenging times. Her experience reflects a broader trend of increasing financial pressures on ordinary Russians as the country continues its military engagement in Ukraine, raising concerns about the potential long-term social impacts of the war on families.

The article sheds light on a critical aspect of how ongoing geopolitical tensions are not merely distant issues but have tangible consequences for the lives of individuals. It serves as a reminder of the human cost of war and economic sanctions, with ordinary citizens like Jelena bearing the brunt of decisions made in the Kremlin, ultimately questioning the sustainability of Russia's current course amidst growing internal discontent.