The piece reflects on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine as it approaches the four-year mark since Russia’s full-scale invasion. The author, who has Russian roots but grew up in Canada, argues for strong support of Ukraine. They emphasize the need for assistance to minimize human suffering caused by attacks on civilian infrastructure. The author separates their views into two main parts: their support for Ukraine and their thoughts on Russia’s future. In the first part, the author challenges common justifications for the invasion, particularly the claims of Russian security needs and Ukrainian mistreatment of Russian speakers. They acknowledge past grievances but argue that these do not justify the aggression witnessed in 2022. The author notes significant improvements in Ukraine over the past decade, contrasting this with increasing repression and militarism in Russia under Putin. They highlight the stark difference in military conduct, asserting that Ukrainian actions focus on military targets, while Russian forces have committed numerous atrocities against civilians. The second part of the analysis explores potential paths for Russia’s future. The author discusses the concept of a “peace with the Russian people” and suggests that ideas like decentralization and digital democracy could pave the way for a better relationship between Russia and Ukraine. They stress the importance of courage in denouncing evil, arguing that acknowledging the reality of the war is crucial for building a more peaceful future. The author’s perspective offers a nuanced view of the conflict, rooted in personal experience and a desire for a constructive dialogue on Russia’s political evolution.