At the start of the Ukraine Invasion I was keen to get a first-hand perspective of the unfolding events from individuals affected. Among them was Yulia, a former Russian banker and UHNW philanthropist living in the UK and subject to Western sanctions. I met Yulia at her home which ironically had Ukrainian domestic staff. She was very decent, honest and open about the situation.
Interviewing her, it became apparent how Western media has a simplified stance and the complexities of the conflict were much more nuanced. As a Russian citizen she had enjoyed prosperity in Putin’s Russian, yet chose to live in the West. Now she had divided loyalties which made her simultaneously subject to both Russian and Western sanctions.
After the interview Yulia’s political position became inreasingly precarious, so some of the content was removed from the full documentary. This is a teaser highlights which picks out some of the most salient points. I am grateful to Yulia for her participation.