how the Russians play chess differently

For nearly two years now, I've refused to play anyone from that country. Not bullet, not blitz, not any format.

I doubt I ever will again.

I'm Canadian.

I am using the Ukrainian flag until the Putinists go home.

Why do people assume that Russian players support Putin or his war?

I am playing under the Canadian flag. I despise Trudeau. There are likely a lot of Russians who feel the same way about their leader. Keep politics out of chess.

That's why I said "until the Putinists go home", instead of saying "until the Russians go home".

Not every German supported Hitler or his war. But they shared some collective guilt.

Widespread heinous atrocities are not simply "politics."

Chess is an integral part of Russian culture, and a source of pride.

It's even a mandatory subject that's taught in schools, starting from first grade (age 6) ... so ... pretty much every citizen plays it.

I'd say it's nearly comparable in popularity to Hockey here in Canada ... Almost.

what did the russians do to you? ngl you sound kinda xenophobic

What did they do to 90% of the world which now sanctions them? Or Europe which refuses to buy their fossil fuels? Or the numerous businesses which exited the country? Or Chess.com and other sports who've removed their flag? Etc.

They must all be xenophobic.

the russian government did that, not the russian people

still isnt right to categorize every russian as bad just because their government is bad

Capablanca and Tarrasch both held that opinion.

Inasmuch as chess.com lets everyone use whatever flag they choose you have no way of knowing where your opponent lives. Not to mention that most of the people in Eastern Ukraine are Russian.

I didn't categorize anyone. Just said I won't play certain opponents.

You play who you want. I'll do the same.