From Disillusionment to Defiance: The Voronkovs’ Journey as Informants for Ukraine

Sergei and Tatyana Voronkov, disenchanted with Russia, relocate to Ukraine, only to find themselves becoming informants against Russian military incursions. Their perilous journey includes detention, escape attempts, and a struggle to find acceptance in a world divided by war.

In a story emblematic of the current geopolitical tensions, Sergei and Tatyana Voronkov embarked on a life-altering journey fueled by their disillusionment with Russia, especially in the wake of the annexation of Crimea in 2014. The couple's initial hope for a peaceful existence in Ukraine turned into an act of resistance when they decided to become informants for the Ukrainian military following the Russian invasion in February 2022.

Originally from Russia, Tatyana, who was born in Ukraine, and Sergei relocated to the small village of Novolyubymivka in southern Zaporizhzhia. They sought a simple life, raising livestock and enjoying nature with their four dogs. However, their tranquility was swiftly disrupted by the realities of war when the first Russian rockets flew overhead, igniting their resolve to take action against the aggression they had denounced for years.

Tatyana's decision to inform Ukraine came after witnessing a Russian military convoy passing nearby. Using an acquaintance’s contact in Kyiv, they provided critical information about Russian military assets in their area, believing it to be a righteous fight against tyranny rather than treasonous betrayal. Their years of gathering intelligence included careful transmissions of Russian military positions, all while maintaining a facade of normalcy in their occupied village.

However, the couple's covert actions led to dire consequences when Sergei was captured by Russian forces in April 2024. His detention was marked by brutal interrogations, fears for his life, and a forced confession that only deepened their perilous situation. Meanwhile, Tatyana frantically searched for her husband, fearing the worst as she dealt with the repercussions of their secretive life as informants.

Despite enduring 37 days of captivity, Sergei was unexpectedly released, but the couple's relief was short-lived as they faced increased surveillance and scrutiny in their community. They ultimately decided to flee to Lithuania, requiring complex planning and even the use of a forged passport. The hazards of this escape were compounded by their risk of arrest, mirroring the continuous danger that shadows their existence since the invasion began.

Now residing in a shelter for asylum seekers in Lithuania, the Voronkovs await a more settled future, even as their actions have alienated them from their loved ones back in Russia. Their son refused to communicate with them upon learning of their new affiliations, and Sergei's mother maintains her support for the war, highlighting the personal toll of their choices.

Despite their tumultuous journey, the Voronkovs remain resolute in their stance against returning to Russia, indicating a broader sentiment among many who have been affected by the conflict that has reshaped lives on all sides. As they navigate their uncertain path, the couple continues to assert their belief in their actions fighting against what they call "evil," resolutely committed to their newfound reality.