Why some Russians join Putin's war: Money over patriotism

Vyacheslav Zarutski has been living in Poland for over two years. Thanks to obtaining asylum in this country, he can stay here without fear and speak about what is happening in Russia. Quite recently, he found out that three of his acquaintances went to fight against Ukraine. Their motivations are surprising.

Vyacheslav learned that his acquaintances enlisted in the war entirely by accident. He saw their pictures in uniforms on social media. Curious, he decided to ask what made them choose to fight for Putin.

The first acquaintance admitted to him that he had problems repaying his loan. He lost funds gambling.

He said that he does not support Putin's activities; he just went for the money. He does not want any war but needs the money, - Vyacheslav said.

His acquaintance enlisted in Moscow, where they pay around $51,000, though they might push him to the front line. Vyacheslav asked him if he was not afraid of dying in the war.

Even better, because my wife can get an additional $30,000 for me, - his acquaintance replied.

Vyacheslav's second friend lived in Spain but lost money and returned to Russia. Unable to find a job, he also went to fight for money.

He did not even serve in the Russian army. When he got a draft call at the age of 18, he was sick. He obtained a certificate from the hospital that he was sick. And he did this for seven years. Now he is 30 and going to the army. And he is not a patriot. Two days ago, he left; now he is at the distribution point. Now the defense ministry will decide where they need soldiers, - Vyacheslav reported.

Vyacheslav's third friend was with him in the Russian army. He seems to be the only one who believes in Russia's victory and claims he is doing it because he believes in Putin's army.

I know that you are on the Ukrainian side, but the victory will be ours. Victory is on Russia's side, - he reportedly told Vyacheslav.

Vyacheslav added that while he was in the army, his superiors inquired if he would go to fight in Donetsk.

You had to go there and say that you do not want to be in Ukraine and for this reason, we are starting a war. I said that something does not add up here; I don't want to. There were people who went for money, - he admitted.

He added, however, that none of his acquaintances who serve in the army today want to say outright that the Kremlin offered money. When he brought up this topic with a friend who was with him in military service, he heard that he speaks like that because... "he was brainwashed in Poland."