Thirty two-year-old Artem used to wear designer clothes and live in a beautiful apartment, until he changed it all for muddy boots and a shelter in the woods. A specialist jeweller, Artem says he is ready to give his life in order for his son to live in a "free country” - a decision not fully shared by his partner, who begged Artem not to volunteer.

Artem says: “When we arrived at the recruitment centre, the very first question we were asked was: ‘Are you ready to die?’, and it moved me deeply. Everyone of us said: ‘Yes,’ to put an end to this war.”

Artem adds, "I am really worried about my son, about my family. It's very difficult, but I didn't have a choice: I am ready to give my life in order so my children can live in a free country".

As Artem successfully progresses through training, he becomes a group leader but his relationship runs into trouble. In Artem’s words war is not only about death, but also about break ups.

"I've got my new family and friends here. We're indeed one family as we support and help each other.”