The Context of the Soviet Union and the Question of Blame

Since the dissolution of the Soviet Union (USSR), the question arises: if Stalin was Georgian and Russia was just another random member of the USSR similar to Kazakhstan, why do people blame Russia for the Holodomor? This article delves into the historical context and reasoning behind this seemingly paradoxical situation.

The Rise of Russia as the Dominant Power

The USSR was not just a collection of equal states. Russia, with its historical and cultural dominance, held the predominant role. As the largest and leading member, Russia’s actions had significant implications. The fact that only Russia exists as a modern state due to its aggressive expansion into neighboring territories, such as Georgia and Ukraine, further highlights its unique position within the former Soviet bloc.

Treaties and Sovereignty

During the dissolution of the USSR in 1991, Russia signed treaties with the United States and Ukraine, committing to the preservation of Ukraine's sovereignty in exchange for the surrender of Ukraine's nuclear arsenal as part of a broader arms reduction agreement. These commitments underscored the importance of Russia's role as a key player in maintaining the stability and security of the region. Yet, Russia has consistently violated these agreements, backing repressive regimes in countries like Belarus and Ukraine.

The Complexity of Blame and Responsibility

Claims of responsibility for the Holodomor primarily come from Ukrainian sources and their sympathizers. The rationale behind this focus is multifaceted. The widespread tragic events of the Holodomor affected millions in Ukraine. Comparatively, other former Soviet republics, such as Kazakhstan, did not suffer as much from these famines. Even so, Russians themselves do not blame anyone, despite the widespread suffering that occurred during that period.

Stalin's Complex Legacy and His Role in the Holodomor

Stalin, while Georgian by blood, was deeply anti-Georgian and held a grudge against his homeland. Contrary to the innocent portrayal of Stalin by some, he was responsible for more deaths, including of Georgians, than any other Soviet leader, including Lenin. This perspective challenges the narrative that non-Russian rulers were somehow inherently less brutal.

Lessons from History and the Perseverance of National Narratives

Lenin, a Russian leader, famously criticized Stalin and Dzerzhinsky for their Russian chauvinism. This highlights the complexity of national identity in the Soviet era. Stalin was indeed a Russian dictator, operating within a Russian-centric Soviet system. His policies, including the Holodomor, were aimed at consolidating Russian control over the region.

The legacy of Stalinism and the Holodomor remains a contentious issue, particularly as Russia continues to deny any connection between these historical events and its modern-day policies. Understanding the true nature of these events is crucial for addressing past grievances and building a just future for the region.

Conclusion

The question of why people blame Russia for the Holodomor, rather than looking to other states or Georgian leadership, reveals a complex interplay of historical, political, and cultural factors. As we continue to grapple with the legacy of the Soviet Union, it is essential to critically evaluate recent events and understand the historical context that informs contemporary conflicts.