A Russian man known for his striking resemblance to Leonardo DiCaprio has been drafted into the military to participate in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Roman Burtsev, 41, became a minor celebrity in Russia due to his likeness to the Hollywood actor, landing various acting and advertising roles. However, in recent years, his career faced challenges as he gained weight, limiting his opportunities in the entertainment industry.
Burtsev has been living with his mother in Podolsk, near Moscow, and like many unemployed men in Russia, he has been called up to join the armed forces amid the war. This recruitment trend follows President Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, which has led many jobless Russians to enlist. Since the conflict escalated, the Russian government has been incentivizing enlistment by raising salaries for soldiers.
Recent reports indicate that active soldiers receive a significant financial boost, with initial enlistment bonuses and higher annual salaries. For instance, Moscow residents who sign up can expect a downpayment of 1.9 million rubles, approximately £15,000, with annual earnings potentially reaching 5.2 million rubles, or £41,300. Additionally, should Burtsev be killed in action, his family could receive compensation of up to £99,000.
The war in Ukraine, which intensified in 2022, marks a significant escalation of a conflict that began in 2014 and has resulted in devastating casualties. Estimates suggest that around one million people have either been killed or wounded since the invasion commenced, making this the largest conflict in Europe since World War II.
While Burtsev’s story unfolds, the real Leonardo DiCaprio has been making headlines for his own reasons. Recently, he has been involved in various film projects, including collaborations with acclaimed director Paul Thomas Anderson. As Burtsev embarks on his military journey, DiCaprio continues to engage audiences with his work in Hollywood, drawing attention to different aspects of life far removed from the bat
tlefield.
