Col. Andrei Demurenko’s career took an unexpected turn when he joined the Russian military in Ukraine, contrasting his earlier U.S. Army training at Fort Leavenworth, Kan. His current stance aligns with President Vladimir V. Putin, whom he sees as a pivotal leader in Russia’s resurgence. The decision to fight for Russia, despite his American background, highlights the complex geopolitical tensions shaping the region. The case of Demurenko raises questions about personal allegiance and the broader implications of cross-border military involvement. His story underscores the personal and national stakes in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with implications for international relations and military ethics.