Ukrainian citizens fighting for Russia describe motivations

Ukrainian citizens fighting in Russian uniforms have shared their motivations while held in a prisoner-of-war camp in western Ukraine. These individuals, many of whom grew up in occupied territories like the Donbas, often identify more strongly with Russia than with Ukraine due to years of exposure to Russian media, education, and propaganda.

Testimonies highlight diverse reasons for joining the Russian military, including voluntary enlistment driven by identity, financial incentives, or attempts to avoid imprisonment. One prisoner, Anton, who grew up in the Donbas after it was occupied when he was ten, stated he does not regret his choice to fight for Russia, asserting, “I consider myself Russian. A country means nothing, it is about nationality.”

Reports indicate that while Russia offers high recruitment bonuses, the number of volunteers appears to be decreasing, and many combatants have been killed in action. The presence of these fighters complicates the legal and social landscape in Ukraine, where such individuals are often viewed as traitors, even though they are held in camps alongside Russian soldiers.