Russian actor explains choice to fight alongside Ukraine's volunteer troops

"I am like a gentle flower. I need certain conditions so that I can enjoy my life, and this is definitely not the AFU," Pashinin told Obozrevatel.

"It was supposed to be a volunteer unit. I'm like Diogenes in search of a real personality, and here there are real personalities all around you. Besides, the very atmosphere allows you to get your act together," said Pashinin.

Read alsoSwedish military chief visits ATO zone in DonbasAccording to the actor, the only advantage he received when getting into a volunteer battalion was the opportunity to get to the front line without having to go through a lengthy bureaucratic routine and waste time in the rear.