TORONTO, Canada: The documentary “Russians at War,” which explores Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine through the perspective of Russian soldiers, is set to be shown in Toronto despite initial screenings being canceled due to “significant threats.”
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) had halted the documentary’s debut after critics labeled it pro-Kremlin propaganda that appeared to justify Russia’s invasion. However, two screenings have been reinstated at the TIFF Lightbox cultural center.
Ukraine’s ambassador to Canada, Yulia Kovaliv, condemned the decision, accusing the festival of amplifying Russian propaganda. Canadian broadcaster TVO also withdrew its support, stating it would no longer air the film.
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Anastasia Trofimova, the Russian-Canadian filmmaker behind the documentary, defended her work, asserting it is anti-war and portrays Russian soldiers as unprepared and used as expendable resources. The soldiers depicted show little understanding of their mission and are struggling with outdated Soviet-era weapons. Despite the filmmaker’s stance, the documentary continues to fuel controversy and debate.
