Renowned French nonfiction writer Emmanuel Carrère has undergone a significant personal and intellectual shift in his perspective on Russia following the country’s invasion of Ukraine. His previously deep affection for Russia has been challenged by his recent travels to the war-torn region, leading to a reevaluation of his long-held views. Carrère’s best-selling works on Russia were rooted in this earlier admiration, but the conflict has forced him to confront the complexities of his relationship with the nation.