A member of the resistance movement using the nickname Brigadier Stepan from the Russian Maidan movement (D-SORM) answered our questions for the Overton Window.
What kind of life would you be living if the war in Ukraine had not broken out?
In fact, it was bound to happen. A more accurate phrasing would be “if it had been postponed for a few more years.” That would likely have allowed us to remain in the Russian Federation and continue our attempts at resistance using the original methods.
What was the moment when you decided there was no turning back? What triggered it? Where were you, and what were you doing?
The moment I was born in the USSR. But more seriously… signs of re-Sovietization appeared after 2000. It was clear that this had to be resisted. To gather my people—and go for it. Since 2014—the annexation of Crimea, the war in Donbas—it has become a duty. And where was I… I think I was at home, we were drinking coffee.
What is the most important thing the resistance movement has given you? And what is the most significant thing it has taken from you?
It gave life meaning. It took nothing.
What message do you want to send to people in the West who will be reading this interview?
Rise up with us. Stop doubting unnecessarily, cast aside shameful excuses. There is one enemy—and we must be united. “We call them freedom fighters. We have an obligation to help them.” — Ronald Reagan, 1985.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
I hope in Ukraine or in Russia.
What do you need to defeat the regime?
According to Dante: “All doubt must here be left behind…”
And besides determination itself—only time.
