On a Russian train near the Ukrainian border, soldiers are seen heading to or returning from the front lines. One soldier, Dima, reflects on the difficulty of fighting against Ukrainians, some of whom are his relatives. Despite capturing a Ukrainian soldier, he feels conflicted about the situation. Another soldier, Pavel, manages anti-aircraft systems and oversees offensives, often making tough decisions that impact lives. Both soldiers express the emotional toll of war, with Pavel noting the stress of sending men into dangerous situations.
Pavel, once a senior specialist at a major company, decided to volunteer for the military after losing relatives to Ukrainian soldiers at the war’s onset. Despite the high-risk nature of his job, he chooses to donate his military salary to an orphanage, not wanting to profit from killing. The soldiers on the train also express the horrors of the front line, with casualties on the Russian side being significant. Drones add to the chaos, targeting wounded soldiers and causing widespread devastation.
Yegor, a soldier from Tatarstan, shares his experiences of being wounded in combat and receiving compensation, only to be deemed fit for service and sent back to the front. Despite his injuries and PTSD, he feels trapped by the consequences of desertion. The soldiers on the train acknowledge the futility of the war, with one admitting he may not survive his next deployment due to an unhealed gunshot wound. Despite the grim outlook, Dima and Pavel maintain faith in Russia’s ultimate victory.
Dima believes Russia is reclaiming historic lands, viewing Ukraine as never truly sovereign. He is confident in Russia’s eventual success, as long as NATO countries do not intervene. Pavel compares the war to a boxing match, predicting that Ukraine will tire out before Russia. The soldiers share a solemn toast to their fallen comrades, highlighting the sacrifice and camaraderie among those involved in the conflict. Despite the challenges and personal losses, these soldiers remain committed to their mission, driven by a sense of duty and patriotism.
The soldiers’ stories provide a glimpse into the brutal realities of war and the complex emotions that come with it. From conflicting loyalties to moral dilemmas and the sacrifices made by individuals, the toll of the conflict is evident. As the train journeys on, these soldiers continue to grapple with their roles in the war, reflecting on their experiences and the uncertain future that awaits them. The article sheds light on the human side of the conflict, capturing the personal struggles and resilience of those caught up in the turmoil of war.
