The term "orcs" usually describes mythical creatures from fantasy worlds. When people talk about orcs, they usually think of the characters depicted in J.R.R. Tolkien's works. In the eyes of some, the Russian army depicts an evil from a fantasy world that must be defeated.

Since the start of the full-scale invasion, Ukrainians have often referred to the Russian army as "orcs". Calling the Russian army this way, is demonizing as it becomes less real and loses its human factor. In the minds of Ukrainians, a person cannot commit such atrocities and kill another person.

Using fantasy concepts instead of real ones can help people distance themselves from the terrible reality of war.

Nowadays, the idea that it is inappropriate to call Russians orcs is becoming more and more widespread.