Expert Reveals the Real Cost of Russia’s ‘Rescue’ of Karelia and Bucha

A Critical Look at Russian Foreign Policy

According to ХВИЛЯ: During a broadcast with analyst Yuriy Romanenko, political expert Tigran Avakyan delivered a harsh assessment of Russia’s foreign policy, drawing on the history of the Karelian people and the events in Bucha, Ukraine. He argued that Russian intervention in both cases led to devastating outcomes, including the disappearance of entire peoples and mass killings of civilians.

Avakyan recounted the story of the Karelian people, noting that despite the formal name of the republic remaining, the large European ethnic group of Karelians has effectively vanished. He used this example to illustrate how Russian policy does not bring success but instead destroys cultures and communities. Turning to the events in Bucha, Ukraine, the expert pointed out that Russian forces’ actions resulted in the mass murder of peaceful residents.

'This is how the Russians “saved” Karelia - they didn’t save anyone. The republic still has its name, but a huge European people, the Karelians, are gone. Well, in Bucha, they also “saved” the Ukrainians very well - and that’s why there are so many dead.' - Tigran Avakyan

Avakyan’s remarks highlight a troubling pattern in Russian foreign policy, one often accompanied by violence and destruction. The historical case of the Karelians and the contemporary tragedy in Ukraine both demonstrate the real-world consequences of such policies, raising serious concerns about regional stability and security. These issues remain central to global discussions on peace and humanitarian rights.

Avakyan's insights resonate with recent developments, particularly as Russia has acknowledged its failure to achieve its objectives in Ukraine. This admission sheds light on the broader implications of its foreign policy, which not only disrupts regional stability but also leaves a trail of cultural and human losses, as illustrated by the experiences of the Karelian people and the tragedy in Bucha.