Out of Control: Ukraine's Rogue Militias

VICE2 minutes read

Volunteer fighters in eastern Ukraine face fear of government labeling while the conflict continues with controversial involvement from figures like Turchynov. Despite the toll of over 10,000 dead and millions displaced, dedicated volunteers like Thunder and Santa persist in their commitment to the cause.

Insights

  • Volunteer fighters in eastern Ukraine, once celebrated, now fear being branded as terrorists by the government, highlighting the complex shifts in perception and identity during conflicts.
  • The commitment of volunteers like Thunder and Santa, willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for their beliefs, underscores the deep personal convictions and sacrifices made by individuals in the midst of war, shaping their experiences and futures.

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Recent questions

  • What sparked the conflict in Ukraine?

    The conflict in Ukraine began in 2014, with the military unprepared to face Russian-backed separatists.

  • Who are the volunteer fighters in eastern Ukraine?

    Volunteer fighters in eastern Ukraine, once hailed as heroes, now fear being labeled terrorists by the government.

  • What challenges do volunteer fighters face upon returning to civilian life?

    The volunteers, now back in Kyiv, reflect on their experiences and the challenges of returning to civilian life.

  • How do volunteer fighters view criticisms of their actions?

    Criticisms of the volunteer battalions are dismissed by the fighters, who see their actions as necessary for their country.

  • What motivates volunteer fighters in eastern Ukraine?

    The volunteers, like Thunder and Santa, are committed to the cause, willing to die for their beliefs.

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Summary

00:00

Volunteer fighters in Ukraine face uncertain future.

  • Volunteer fighters in eastern Ukraine, once hailed as heroes, now fear being labeled terrorists by the government.
  • The conflict in Ukraine began in 2014, with the military unprepared to face Russian-backed separatists.
  • Turchynov, a controversial figure, called on volunteers, including criminals and neo-Nazis, to defend the country.
  • Despite the military's control, doubts persist about rogue volunteers still fighting independently.
  • A journalist gains access to volunteer fighters, witnessing their daily lives and preparations for combat.
  • The volunteers, like Thunder and Santa, are committed to the cause, willing to die for their beliefs.
  • The war's toll is evident, with over 10,000 dead and millions displaced, yet the conflict persists.
  • The volunteers, now back in Kyiv, reflect on their experiences and the challenges of returning to civilian life.
  • Criticisms of the volunteer battalions are dismissed by the fighters, who see their actions as necessary for their country.
  • The uncertainty of what lies ahead for these young fighters after the war raises questions about their future and reintegration into society.

21:02

Volunteer Flags and Masks in Ukraine

  • Occurrence of volunteer battalion flags and patches on the Day of the Defender in Ukraine
  • Presence of individuals in black masks and balaclavas, expressing anger
  • Uncertainty regarding the outcome of the situation
  • Persistence of volunteers despite the circumstances
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