tensions on the Donbass border

In the very south of Russia, in the region of Rostovtanks are posted on the side of the road leading to the border with Donbass. At least fifteen Russian armored vehicles have been stationed there, it is only part of the 100,000 soldiers deployed by Russia in the west of the country. In the village of Sambeknext door, everyone noticed the return of military, but the locals have become accustomed to living with war on its doorstep.

Since 2014, this Russian region has been at the forefront of the conflict in the Donbass. Residents have even taken refuge in this village. Here, the Russian president is seen as a protector and the presence of the army reassures. “Several residents have told us that they fear that the danger will come from Ukraine. The official Russian rhetoric is that Ukraine is preparing provocations against separatists in the Donbass”explains Luc Lacroix, special envoy to the region of Rostov.