Defectors of Conscience: The Voronkovs' Journey from Russia to Ukraine

Sergei and Tatyana Voronkov, disillusioned by Russia's actions, move to Ukraine hoping for peace. When the war starts, they take the courageous step to inform Ukraine about Russian military activities, leading to their perilous detainment and eventual escape to Lithuania. Despite losing their family's support, they stand firm in their decision against the war.

Sergei and Tatyana Voronkov, a couple disillusioned by Vladimir Putin's regime, fled Russia to seek a peaceful life in Ukraine after the annexation of Crimea in 2014. Their hopes for tranquility were shattered when Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, transforming their quiet village into an occupied territory. In response to the invasion, they courageously became informants for the Ukrainian military, believing they were fighting against what they perceived as evil and did not view their actions as treason.

After a Russian military convoy passed their home, Tatyana contacted a friend in Ukraine's security services, which led to the couple providing critical intelligence on Russian military movements, including the locations of missile systems. For the next two years, they worked under the constant threat of exposure, collecting and transmitting information even under challenging internet connectivity.

In April 2024, their covert operations took a dangerous turn when Sergei was detained while shopping. He faced rough interrogation tactics, including being held in a cold basement, subjected to threats of violence, and eventually confessed under duress. Meanwhile, Tatyana frantically searched for him, uncovering details about his captivity through persistent inquiries.

Yet, after 37 days of imprisonment, Sergei was unexpectedly released, although his passport and other documents were confiscated. Following his release, the couple believed they were still under surveillance and decided to escape. They devised a plan to return to Russia to obtain a new passport for Sergei. With assistance from their neighbors, they sold their belongings and set off with a cover story to evade any suspicion from Russian forces.

Although initially denied entry into Russia, they eventually succeeded in acquiring his passport. However, their escape involved using a fake passport purchased through a messaging app. After a convoluted journey through Belarus, they crossed into Lithuania, where Sergei was detained for using false documents.

Now residing in a shelter for asylum seekers in Lithuania, the Voronkovs have garnered support through a letter of thanks from the Ukrainian army, which they hope will aid their application for asylum. However, their decision to inform on Russian activities has created a deep chasm in their family, with their son, who lives in Russia, cutting them off entirely and Sergei's mother supporting the war efforts.

Despite the tense relations and threats of violence they faced, the Voronkovs remain resolute in their choice to stand against injustice. They express a commitment to never return to Russia until it demonstrates a semblance of humanity—an aspiration that seems distant in today's political climate.