Why do people online downplay the effect of sanctions on Russia?

[Anonymous]

Especially the strict EU sanctions. The sanctions from the 2014 invasion devastated the Russian people but this is a whole new level and I do not think the country will get through it in the long run.

[Guy13]

It hurts the middle class and unifies the people behind Putin. It does not hurt Putin and the other Oligarchs. I know people who live there.
Fussia also have saved hundreds of billions equivalent of dollars anticipating this action around Ukraine. They also have little debt. And, their currency is as strong as it has ever been.
Thanks to Biden global hyperinflation started, confounded by winter and no oil from Russia ends into global financial crisis throughout EU and into China etc.

[Asker]

Russia has a skilled and impressive tech workforce. This just hurts that and it is very sad. It is time for Russia to end the war.

[Asker]

A country with some of the best scientists, tech-workers, and doctors, the world has ever seen, it's being destroyed that breaks my heart.

[Guy13]

In every form of government outside of Republic the people always suffer. Democracy is mob rule by Elite and first step to Communism. It is well on its way to happening in USA too.

[Asker]

What do you mean?

[Asker]

The US is beyond wealthy.

[Metallsturm]

> The sanctions from the 2014 invasion devastated the Russian people
It did? Damn, I must've missed something.

[Astarlessnightsky]

Thats the idea behind sanctions, so Russia and espacially Putin can't continue his war in Urkaine.

[AngryCarl]

Russia will survive but Putin may not.