## Russia's Former Liberal Elite Adopts the Kremlin's Anti-European Rhetoric ### Shift in Tone After Failed Ceasefire Talks Silenced since the war in Ukraine began, many former members of Russia’s liberal elite have radically changed their stance after the collapse of ceasefire negotiations. Once publicly opposed to the Kremlin’s policies, these figures are now echoing much of its anti-European and nationalist narrative. ### From Criticism to Alignment While some formerly liberal voices initially called for dialogue and reconciliation with Europe, prolonged conflict and social isolation have led them to embrace rhetoric portraying Europe as hostile and hypocritical. Analysts note that this ideological shift reflects the increasing dominance of the Kremlin’s worldview across Russian public life. ### Deepening Isolation As sanctions continue and communication with Western institutions fades, these new positions highlight a broader psychological and political isolation. Experts warn that Russia’s liberal elite is no longer a counterbalance to state propaganda but a participant in spreading it. > “The war and the siege mentality have reshaped elite discourse. Former progressives now sound like conservative state commentators,” said a Moscow-based political scientist. The phenomenon illustrates not only the power of state control over public opinion but also the fragility of independent political identities under prolonged authoritarian pressure. *** **Author’s summary:** Once vocal critics of the Kremlin, many former Russian liberals now echo state anti-European rhetoric, reflecting deepening ideological conformity and isolation within Russian society.

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Le Monde.fr — 2025-11-30