Germany (or England, actually alot of western countries fall into this category) is radically different from Russia. Culturally, Socially, Financially and Politically they are poles apart.
Yes Germany is very capitalist, there exists an artificial cost of living crisis (based on how capitalism now functions - rich get richer and working class stay small) which shows no sign of changing (in germany or in other "western" countries). It is very hard to get onto the property market and/or become wealthy. Success (money) breeds success. And when you dont have it, its very hard to get. However this is a separate topic as compared to the conflict in Ukraine.
Ultimately as several people have highlighted, there are fundamental issues in eastern europe. The Russia model is repressive. In this regard eastern european countries would and will continue to ever move westwards because, for all of western, or even german, faults (capitalism or what not) it is a better more open social social climate, where you are allowed to have and voice your views/thoughts/orientations (as is not the case in Russia).
Yes Germany, or any country has serious social issues, but Russia has more fundamental issues such as the denial of freedom of (different) thought / way of life.
and yes i have lived in germany. and my family also houses ukrainian refugees, both of these facts are not relevant to simply reading different positions and understanding that our way or position is not the only way/position.
Quote (Ironfister @ Mar 8 2023 08:11am)
How can you even compare Putin's Russia with free liberal world?
In Russia you are basically a slave.
There are no media other than allowed by government.
There are no political parties other than allowed by government
You can go to prison if you don't like the government and tell the truth.
the only thing i disagree with is the slave comment but I understand what you are trying to say and would broadly agree with this post.
In this regard Germany is more liberal and you can have competing parties and you dont go to jail for having another point of view.
Quote (Ironfister @ Mar 8 2023 11:18am)
You can say that average german 2000euro monthly salary is "low money". It's a subjective feeling, and I can understand it might feel low when the shops are full of luxury goods.
But the Russian need to live for just 200eur.
Even if Russian prices are half of german, its still 400euro vs 2000eur.
Barely enough to buy some potato, rice, sugar, and make illegal Vodka. If you are lucky you get some TV to watch mr Putin.
You just cant imagine how poor the people are around the world.
and also agree with this. the cost of living in germany is high, and yes some ppl struggle to put food on the table. The same is in england and ireland and in every country, to varying degrees.
Quote (Hamsterbaby @ Mar 8 2023 09:29am)
I personally would call that propaganda. ultimately if it looks like a duck, quacks like a duck, its probably a duck. I will probably challenge more comments like this.
and finally agree with alot of what
has conveyed, if not his words (no need to provoke people, just provide your position / counter argument).
This post was edited by ferdia on Mar 8 2023 05:40am