Russian friends and neighbours

[malumbu]

I know three Russians, not that well but will come across them from time to time. I'm not sure of their residential status, I expect that they are UK citizens, nor their politics. A bit of an elephant in the room "hi, I see you have invaded a sovereign state" (reminds me of the Father Ted is a Racist sketch).

Anyone in a similar situation? Any people of Russian heritage posting on this site?

[TheCat]

I wouldn't think it's a problem to just straight up ask them if you run into them and are striking up a conversation...I.e Nice weather we've been having? How are the kids? What do you make of everything going on in Ukraine?....that's not rude at all in my book, and also if asked in that fashion doesn't pre-suppose anything about how they might answer...and also leave them free to not really commit to any sort of answer if they don't want to....but I'd be surprised if a native Russian didn't have a view, and people generally love being asked their opinion on something they care about...

[womanofdulwich]

Many Russians even those based here, would not be willing to express anti Putin views.i would not mention it, unless obvious oligarch.

[Waseley]

Looking at another thread on the Forum you could also ask were they pleased that they financed Trump and Brexit, and whether they will be following the winter Paralympics. Oh and are they proud about the humanitarian mess in Syria that they contributed to. OK poor taste ...

[womanofdulwich]

I think its very possible that they are being spied on by others/ fear it, and they feel they have to show loyalty if challenged.I'd just give them a wide berth.

[KidKruger]

Sounds like the script for The Americans 😳