In Moscow one year on, a mixture of defiance and some sadness over Ukraine conflict

A supporter of Russian President Vladimir Putin distributes newspapers on the first anniversary of the beginning of Russia's military campaign in Ukraine, near the State Historical Museum in central Moscow, Russia, February 24, 2023. REUTERS/Shamil Zhumatov

MOSCOW (Reuters) - One year after Russia sent its troops into Ukraine in what it called a "special military operation" the mood in the Russian capital on Friday was muted but defiant, with some saying they saw no choice but to fight until victory was achieved.

Hundreds of thousands of Russians who disagree with the decision or fear conscription have fled the country. Those who remain risk being jailed if deemed to have discredited the army, which means that people are careful about what they say in public.