Sergei and Tatyana Voronkov, disillusioned by Russia's political climate, switch allegiance and become informants for Ukraine amid escalating conflict, facing perilous circumstances and family estrangement in their quest for safety and justice.
**From Russia to Resistance: The Voronkovs’ Journey as Informants for Ukraine**
**From Russia to Resistance: The Voronkovs’ Journey as Informants for Ukraine**
A couple's defiance against Russia leads them to become invaluable intelligence sources for Ukraine during the war.
Sergei and Tatyana Voronkov, fed up with the ongoing political repression in modern Russia, decided to leave their homeland in 2014, shortly after the annexation of Crimea. They relocated to Ukraine, Tatyana's birthplace, in hopes of living a peaceful life away from the tensions of Russian politics. However, their lives took a sharp turn after Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
Living in Novolyubymivka, a small village in the Zaporizhzhia region, the Voronkovs faced the reality of war when Russian missiles flew over their home. Moved by a sense of duty and armed with the experience from their past, they made the bold decision to become informants for Ukraine. Tatyana began sharing intelligence about Russian military movements and hardware, while Sergei gathered crucial coordinates, all transmitted through encrypted messages.
"We didn't see it as treason," Tatyana stated, noting that they aimed solely to combat what they viewed as evil. Their intelligence efforts led them to uncover Russian electronic warfare systems and help target military equipment, something that extended their personal risks in a territory now occupied by the enemy.
The couple's situation became dire after Sergei was detained by Russian forces in April 2024 while shopping. He endured harsh interrogation methods and was threatened for his informant activities. Despite initially denying informing the Ukrainians, the pressure led to a confession under duress. Tatyana's persistent search for her husband proved fruitless until he was unexpectedly released after 37 days, although his documents were confiscated.
In the weeks following Sergei's release, they sensed being watched and decided to escape. After careful planning, the Voronkovs made their way to Russia under the guise of a medical trip, allowing them to obtain a new passport for Sergei. Using a forged passport purchased through dubious channels, they eventually managed to cross into Lithuania, though Sergei faced legal troubles for his documentation.
Now seeking asylum in Lithuania, the couple remains hopeful. They received a letter of gratitude from the Ukrainian army, which might aid their asylum case. However, their choices have strained familial bonds back in Russia, particularly with their son and other relatives who support Putin's regime.
Amidst all this, Sergei and Tatyana remain steadfast in their resolve to never return to Russia unless substantial change occurs—an acknowledgment of humanity that they feel is currently absent.
