I Just Bought a Loaf of Bread. Am I Complicit In the Kremlin's Actions?

Every day, Russian citizens find themselves facing a dilemma. When they purchase a loaf of bread for 100 rubles, a significant portion of that money goes directly to the Russian government. This money funds the ongoing war – a truth many are forced to confront.

Russian tax system is complex, with multiple levies - including income tax, VAT, property tax, and more. All of these taxes contribute to a single budget, the same budget that supports the war. So, in a way, when a person buys bread, they are essentially paying for the war.

The Russian legal system considers this complicity. Under Article 353 of the Criminal Code, assisting in the planning, preparation, initiation, or waging of aggressive war is considered a crime. Yet, no Russian court would ever charge an ordinary citizen with this. If the law were to be strictly applied, millions of Russians would be considered complicit in this crime.

However, Russian law also recognizes certain exceptions. If a person is physically unable to leave the country, or if they have no other way to prevent greater harm, they might be exempt. But for most Russians, who have work opportunities abroad and are not in extreme necessity, the line between complicity and choice becomes blurry.

For many, the choice seems clear. They don't want to be an accomplice. But they are left wondering where their line between necessity and choice truly lies. Despite this uncertainty, The Moscow Times stands firm, committed to providing unbiased reporting about Russia. They appeal for support, emphasizing that every contribution, no matter how small, can make a significant impact. They are fighting for the right to continue their work, free from repression.