"People took part in the referendum because they were tired of the war. They are afraid of talking about it out loud, but they have shown exactly where they stand: Yes, we want peace, and we want to be a part of Russia"

This quote by Akhmad Kadyrov speaks to the sentiment of individuals in the area throughout the referendum. People were tired of the war and desired peace, however were afraid to speak out about it. The referendum was a method for them to express their opinion without needing to speak out loud. The results of the referendum revealed that individuals wished to belong of Russia, which they wanted peace. This quote talks to the courage of the people in the area, who wanted to decide and express their opinion, even though they hesitated to do so. It likewise speaks with the power of the referendum, which enabled individuals to make their voices heard without needing to speak out loud.