What drives Ukrainian soldiers to be so motivated, in contrast to Russian forces, who are reportedly compelled to fight?

The morale among Ukrainian soldiers remains remarkably high, even after more than two years of intense conflict.

Last week, I was embedded with a unit near the frontline when we came under Russian artillery fire. Tragically, one of their most skilled soldiers was killed, along with my German colleague.

That evening, we gathered in a small house, feeling the weight of the day’s events. One Ukrainian soldier stood up and spoke to the group. In a few powerful words, he honored their fallen comrade, saying it was now their responsibility to carry on his work and seek justice for his loss.

The next morning, everyone returned to their duties. Damaged equipment was being repaired, and destroyed materials were being replaced. There was simply no time to look back; the mission continued.

After the artillery strike. (Picture by the author of this post)

Only fifteen months ago, most of these folks were civilians. Now they defend their country and they’re doing it extremely well.

They come from the West and the East of the country, Russian and Ukrainian language speakers, orthodox and catholic Christians, men and women.

All of them are first and foremost Ukrainians. They fight for the right of their nation to live.

The Russians, on the other hand, only have ulterior motives. For their politicians, the war is just a big land grab and for their soldiers, it's an opportunity to steal, rape, and murder with impunity.

The Russians don't care about Ukraine, they do not even care about their people. And they do not give a crap about the people in the West who support their evil cause.