Is kissing on the lips normal in Russia?

Is Kissing on the Lips Normal in Russia?

It might come as a surprise to many, but yes—kissing on the lips, particularly among men, was once a completely normal and accepted gesture in Russia. This tradition, deeply rooted in Slavic culture, extended well into the Soviet era and reflected a different understanding of intimacy and camaraderie than what’s common in many Western countries today.

Back then, a kiss on the lips or cheek wasn’t necessarily romantic. It was a sign of deep respect, friendship, or familial affection. High-ranking officials, soldiers, and old friends often greeted each other this way—sometimes with three kisses alternating between cheeks and lips, a custom known as the "triple kiss." It was a solemn, almost ritualistic gesture, echoing centuries-old traditions where oaths of loyalty and brotherhood were sealed with a kiss.

This practice wasn’t limited to men and women in romantic relationships. In fact, male politicians or military leaders sharing a lip kiss on national television was not uncommon and rarely raised eyebrows domestically. It symbolized unity, trust, and emotional closeness in a culture that historically valued strong, visible bonds between men.

While such public displays have become less frequent in modern Russia—partly due to shifting social norms and greater Western influence—the gesture still lingers in private circles, especially among older generations or in rural areas. Today, cheek kissing is more common and socially expected among friends and relatives, but the idea of a lip kiss as a non-romantic gesture isn't entirely foreign to those familiar with the past.

So yes, while it may seem unusual from a Western perspective, kissing on the lips was, and in some contexts still is, a normal expression of warmth and respect in Russia—a reminder that cultural norms around physical affection can vary widely and carry meanings far beyond romance.