High Demand for AI-Generated Farewell Videos of Fallen Soldiers in Russia

In Russia, there is a growing trend among families of deceased soldiers to create AI-generated farewell videos depicting their loved ones ascending to the heavens. This phenomenon has been reported widely, particularly through a popular Telegram account where these AI-generated clips can be ordered. The service starts at approximately EUR15, and demand has surged significantly, leading to a lengthy waiting list.

The individual behind this Telegram account, a 36-year-old Russian woman, first began experimenting with AI technology about a year ago. Initially, she created videos featuring people meeting younger versions of themselves. By spring, she started producing farewell videos for fallen soldiers at no cost, provided she could share them publicly. The response was overwhelming, with reports indicating she received up to 500 requests daily within a short period.

Currently, the creator dedicates about two days to each video, which means that it will take some time to fulfill all outstanding requests. To generate these videos, she trains the AI using images and, if available, video footage of the deceased and their families. Depending on the price paid, the resulting videos can show the deceased waving at the camera, embracing loved ones, ascending a staircase into a sunny sky, or even speaking, with some visuals depicting them sprouting wings.

While many families find solace in these videos, the initiative has drawn significant criticism, particularly from Ukraine. Critics argue that these videos glorify the ongoing conflict and downplay the realities faced by soldiers. Even within Russia, reactions are mixed, with some viewing the videos as unsettling. The creator defends her work, stating that it provides comfort to bereaved families.