L'Étoile du soldat is a French film by the director Christophe de Ponfilly, who made several movies and documentaries in Afghanistan.
We are then shown how the Russian forces have established a base in a remote valley, from where they are trying to root out Mujahideen rebels fighting the Russian-backed regime in Kabul.
But he gradually forges a bond with Commander Massoud of the Mujahideen, questions his own identity, and relates more with the rebel forces than with the Russian troops that constantly attack Afghan homes and villages with tanks and helicopters.
Later in the film, after a young girl, Massoud's niece, tells the Commander of Nikolaï's bravery in allowing the woman to flee and thus sparing her life, he gains the respect of the rebels and is set free.
He is also a foreigner in Afghanistan accompanying the rebel forces to document their struggle, which was taking place before satellite communication and thus was largely concealed from international scrutiny.