War in Ukraine: report alongside Russian soldiers sent to the front

The location is kept secret. Dn the part of Donbass controlled by the Russians, about thirty kilometers from the front, they are preparing for the Ukrainian counter-offensive. Exceptionally, a team from France Télévisions was authorized to access it. On board the tanks, they are not professionals but mobilized people from Siberia. They all just came back from the front for a few days of training, before going back. Six months ago, a Russian was working as an electrician. Today, he says he is proud to fight. “My grandfather went to war. I have to safeguard the history of my country with dignity, that’s what I’m here for“, he confides.

The Russians do not admit defeat

Opposite, they know that the Ukrainians have received powerful German Leopard II tanks. But they refuse to admit defeat. Some had no experience other than their military service. In front of the camera, everyone pretends not to be impressed by the rumors of a Ukrainian counter-offensive. After six months on the front, the men are hoping for their first leave soon.