Russians at War: A Different Perspective on Russian Soldiers

Documentary-maker Anastasia Trofimova spent seven months with Russian soldiers in Ukraine to challenge stereotypes about them. Her film, 'Russians at War,' was screened at the Venice Film Festival. The documentary portrays them as ordinary individuals, disillusioned and fighting for various personal reasons, rather than the often depicted war criminals.

Documentary-maker Anastasia Trofimova spent seven months living with Russian soldiers near the front line in Ukraine, capturing their stories for the Venice Film Festival. She aims to challenge the prevailing stereotypes about these men.

In Russia, they are hailed as heroes, while in the West, they are often labeled as war criminals. Trofimova found them to be ordinary individuals with families, humor, and their own understanding of the war. Her unauthorized work embedded her with a disarrayed, battle-bruised battalion, revealing their struggles and disillusionment.

Many soldiers admit to fighting mainly for money, growing increasingly cynical about state media's coverage, deeming it filled with lies. Others fight out of camaraderie, driven by personal losses. Despite criticisms, Trofimova insists her documentary aims to bridge understanding, not fuel further enmity.

(With inputs from agencies.)