A Ukrainian Soldier with Family in Russia Reveals Their Silence on Putin

The Story of Ihor Lastochkin

According to РБК-Україна — Lite: Ihor Lastochkin, who joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine in February 2024, shared details about his relatives still living in Russia. According to Lastochkin, his father and brother are not involved in combat, but they evade any discussion about the country's political climate.

'They aren't fighting, I hope. Maybe they aren't even helping the occupying army. That's why I don't lump them in with those a******s who crossed into Ukraine. I asked them directly: Is Putin a piece of s**t? There's no straight answer.' Ihor Lastochkin

Lastochkin worked in Russia until October 2017. In April 2024, he announced that he had joined the 93rd Separate Mechanized Brigade 'Kholodnyi Yar,' where he now serves as a platoon commander for aerial reconnaissance. He took part in the defense of Pokrovsk and is currently operating in the Donetsk region.

Strained Relationships Amid War

Lastochkin's story illustrates not only his personal journey but also the difficult ties with relatives who remain on Russian soil. This dynamic highlights the deep divide between people on opposite sides of the conflict and the complexity of maintaining personal connections during wartime. Many Ukrainians fighting for their country have family in Russia who neither support the aggression nor feel safe voicing their true stance due to fear or social pressure.

This situation underscores how war reshapes family bonds and social networks in the region.

As the conflict continues to impact personal relationships, the story of Igor Lastochkin's rise to command highlights the complexities faced by those with ties to both sides. His journey from comedian to platoon commander in the Donetsk region sheds light on the evolving roles of individuals in wartime, illustrating how their experiences can shape perspectives on family and loyalty amidst ongoing strife.