Chulpan Khamatova spoke openly in an interview with the RusDelfi YouTube channel, sharing her observations about how people in Europe contrast with residents of Russia. Her reflections touch on everyday behavior, social norms, and the quiet shifts that shape a community over time.
She notes that in Europe, people tend to be calmer and more patient in public spaces, including stores. They are often ready to yield the way for others, such as letting a car pass or letting someone else go first in line, not because they fear conflict but because courtesy is woven into daily living. This contrasts with past experiences in Moscow, where she recalls a different rhythm of interaction. She describes a time when it felt nearly impossible for pedestrians or neighbors to extend small courtesies to one another. Yet changes in traffic and traffic laws gradually redefined what was normal. As rules became stricter, people adapted and began to expect a more orderly, courteous flow in public life. She acknowledges that the pace and level of courtesy still vary by region, noting that in some provincial areas the transition has been slower and customs remain more traditional.
During the conversation, she was asked about the perceived differences between a Russian living in Europe and a Russian living in Russia. The actress rejected the idea of strict categories and emphasized a more nuanced set of human qualities. She talked about dignity, inner beauty, kindness, compassion, conscience, and honor as universal traits that can exist in people regardless of where they reside. She suggested that a Russian who has lived in a European country might not automatically embody European cultural norms, while conversely a Russian who has never visited Europe could still carry deeply European-inspired values, especially if rooted in personal experience or upbringing in rural communities. The emphasis is on character and conduct rather than on geography alone.
These reflections come at a time of significant change in her life. After the onset of a major military operation, Khamatova chose to relocate from Russia to Latvia, seeking safety and stability as the situation evolved. Her move underscores how personal decisions intersect with broader geopolitical events, and how individuals navigate identity and belonging amid disruption. Throughout the discussion, the underlying message remains clear: people are defined more by their choices, empathy, and integrity than by the country they call home. The interview offers a thoughtful look at culture, mobility, and the universal quest for dignity that transcends borders.