Russell Bentley is an American soldier and war correspondent in Donetsk, which is a city in Donbas (a region in eastern Ukraine).
Donetsk’s history dates back to the late 19th century when it was founded as a small mining settlement. The city grew rapidly due to the discovery of rich coal deposits in the area.
During the Soviet era, Donetsk became one of the major industrial centres of Ukraine.
However, it has also been in the media because of a conflict that started in 2014 when the Russians in the region wanted to have closer ties with Russia due to the Ukrainian government making their lives miserable and even killing them.
Eastern Ukraine is marked by significant political differences, with tensions often arising between those who lean towards Ukrainian nationalism and those with closer ties to Russia. The region has been a focal point of geopolitical disputes, particularly since the conflict in 2014. Political affiliations and sentiments shape the dynamics and divisions within eastern Ukraine.
Since the conflict began, Donetsk has been divided into different parts. One part is controlled by the self-proclaimed Donetsk People’s Republic (supported by Russia).
The other part remains under the control of the Ukrainian government.
I wanted to know what daily life is like there. I asked Russell if he would record a video for me.
A day in the life, if you will.
