Arnold Schwarzenegger Has Something To Say To Those Taking A Stand Against Putin
Arnold Schwarzenegger is one of the most recognizable faces and voices in pop culture. Whether or not his films are your cup of tea, you likely recognize his one-liners (via Goliath). He's perhaps best known for the much-quoted line from the film series "The Terminator" — "I'll be back" — which has undoubtedly been said countless times, with fans referencing the film series in their daily lies. In fact, the line is so famous and well-delivered that it ranked #37 on the American Film Institutes' list of 100 movie quotes.
While acting is what made Schwarzenegger a household name, his passion was politics. After an impressive movie career, he decided to run for governor of California. While it's been over a decade since he was in office, he is still a respected political figure in the state (via The New York Times).
Schwarzenegger has been known to share his political beliefs even after his career in California's government came to a close. He's been a passionate advocate on climate change and safety measures throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. This is why it was no surprise that the former governor weighed in on Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
Schwarzenegger sent a message of support to protesting Russians
Arnold Schwarzenegger took to Twitter to share a message aimed at the Russian people amidst Vladamir Putin's conflict in Ukraine (via TMZ). The video was a heartfelt message in support of those protesting Putin in Russia.
In the video, Schwarzenegger shares an anti-war sentiment (per The Hill). "No one likes to hear something critical of their government, I understand that," the former governor said. "But as a longtime friend of the Russian people, I hope that you will hear what I have to say with the same heartfelt concern as I spoke to the American people when there was an attempted insurrection on Jan. 6 last year, when a wild crowd was storming the U.S. Capitol trying to overthrow our government."
"I urge the Russian people and the Russian soldiers in Ukraine to understand the propaganda and the disinformation that you've been told," he continued. "I ask you to help me spread the truth — let your fellow Russians know the human catastrophe that is happening in Ukraine."
He also shared support for Russian protestors, praising them by saying, "The world has seen your bravery. We know that you have suffered the consequences of your courage." He then acknowledged their suffering on their home soil. "You have been arrested. You have been jailed, and you have been beaten. You are my new heroes," he added. Ultimately, as Russia's invasion continues, an increasing number of celebrities and politicians are coming forward in support of Ukraine.