Much of the Western world, with its values of humanism and respect for every individual, has responded to the invasion of Ukraine by convicting all Russians. But recent history shows that there are good reasons to reject the perverse logic of collective guilt.
TBILISI – Since Russia invaded Ukraine, Georgia’s capital has become one of the most interesting places on Earth. Much of Russia’s cultural and intellectual elite – artists, writers, journalists, actors, directors, philosophers, and professors – has poured in. Enter a café, and you inevitably hear Russian and recognize someone you know. Cozy, picturesque Tbilisi is small, with everything in easy sight. There are countless Ukrainian flags with slogans expressing support for the country. And then there are the messages scrawled on the fences and walls of houses: Fuck Putin; Fuck Russia; Russian warship, go fuck yourself.
TBILISI – Since Russia invaded Ukraine, Georgia’s capital has become one of the most interesting places on Earth. Much of Russia’s cultural and intellectual elite – artists, writers, journalists, actors, directors, philosophers, and professors – has poured in. Enter a café, and you inevitably hear Russian and recognize someone you know. Cozy, picturesque Tbilisi is small, with everything in easy sight. There are countless Ukrainian flags with slogans expressing support for the country. And then there are the messages scrawled on the fences and walls of houses: Fuck Putin; Fuck Russia; Russian warship, go fuck yourself.