Many proponents of Ruthenianism became disenchanted with Austria and linked themselves with the giant and powerful Russian state. The relative rise of Russia's power in comparison to that of Austria during the 19th century also played a role in such feelings. Events of the 1860s helped to increase pro-Russian feelings in Galicia.
Many Ruthenianists lost confidence in Austria and joined forces with the dominant Russian state. The rise in Russia's power compared to Austria during the 19th century also contributed to these sentiments. Events of the 1860s heightened pro-Russian feelings in Galicia.