Crisis in Ukraine: the joy of pro-Russian separatists in Donetsk

Vladimir Putin’s announcement was celebrated by a few supporters in the center of Donetskwith the anthem and Russian flags. For them, the victory is great, and synonymous with a first step before integrating Russia. During the night, residents filmed columns of armored vehicles. On the morning of Tuesday, February 22, the Russian army is invisible. Men have nevertheless come to volunteer to fight in the ranks of the separatist forces. “I have a lot of hope in the Russian soldiers. Without them, we cannot beat the Ukrainian army”says one of them.

Many residents say they see Russia as a protector after eight years of conflict with Ukraine. In a village located a few kilometers from the front line, the night was calm, unlike the previous days. In the afternoon, images from Russia show soldiers seeming to be heading towards the separatist areas, even if they are officially still not there.