‘They want to overthrow Putin’: The Russians who turned on the Kremlin
The war in Ukraine has been raging for almost a year, since Russia launched a full-scale invasion of its neighbour in February 2022. The conflict has claimed over 50,000 lives, displaced millions of people, and threatened the stability and security of Europe and the world. But not all Russians support Putin’s aggressive and expansionist policies. Some have even joined the Ukrainian side, risking their lives and facing the wrath of the Kremlin.
Who are these Russian volunteers who fight for Ukraine? What motivates them to take up arms against their own country? And what do they hope to achieve by their actions?
The Russian volunteers in Ukraine are a diverse and heterogeneous group, with different backgrounds, ideologies, and goals. Some are ethnic Ukrainians or have family ties to Ukraine. Some are former soldiers or veterans of other conflicts, such as Afghanistan, Chechnya, or Syria. Some are political dissidents or activists, who oppose Putin’s authoritarian regime and its repression of civil society and human rights. Some are motivated by religious beliefs, such as Orthodox Christians or Muslims. And some are simply adventurers or mercenaries, who seek thrill or money.
But despite their differences, they share a common desire to defend Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to challenge Russia’s aggression and interference in the region. They also share a common disdain for Putin and his cronies, whom they accuse of corruption, oppression, and warmongering. They see Putin as a dictator who has hijacked Russia’s democracy and turned it into a rogue state that threatens the peace and security of the world. They want to overthrow Putin and restore Russia’s dignity and freedom.
The Russian volunteers in Ukraine face many challenges and dangers. They have to cross the border illegally, often through minefields or checkpoints controlled by pro-Russian separatists or Russian forces. They have to conceal their identity and nationality, as they could be arrested, tortured, or executed if captured by the enemy. They have to adapt to a different language, culture, and legal system. And they have to fight against a superior and ruthless adversary, who has more weapons, manpower, and resources.
But the Russian volunteers in Ukraine also find support and solidarity from their Ukrainian comrades and the local population. They are welcomed as brothers and allies, who share a common history, culture, and faith. They are trained and equipped by the Ukrainian army or volunteer battalions, who appreciate their skills and experience. And they are honoured and respected by the Ukrainian people, who recognise their courage and sacrifice.
The Russian volunteers in Ukraine have made a significant contribution to the Ukrainian resistance and the global security. They have fought bravely and fiercely in many battles and fronts, such as Mariupol, Donetsk, Luhansk, and Crimea. They have inflicted heavy casualties and damage on the Russian forces and their proxies. They have also exposed the lies and propaganda of the Kremlin, which denies its involvement in the war and portrays the Ukrainian side as fascists and terrorists. They have shown the world that not all Russians are loyal to Putin and his regime, and that there is a strong and vibrant opposition within Russia that seeks change and democracy.
The war in Ukraine is not over yet, and the fate of the region and the world is still uncertain. But the Russian volunteers in Ukraine have already made history, and have inspired many others to join their cause. They have shown that there is hope and resistance, even in the darkest and most difficult times. They have shown that there is another way to be Russian, and that there is another Russia that is possible.
