The Voronkovs' journey began in the aftermath of Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014, a move that deeply troubled Sergei and Tatyana Voronkov. This discontent led the couple to leave their homeland and relocate to Novolyubymivka, Ukraine, where they sought a simple life with their pets and livestock. However, the invasion by Russia in February 2022 signaled an end to their quiet existence, as they quickly found themselves in the heart of occupied territory.
In the wake of Russian aggression, Tatyana felt compelled to act when a military convoy passed their home. A message was sent through Telegram to a contact in Ukraine’s security services, sparking an unexpected turn in their lives. Over time, they became informants for Ukraine, sharing vital information about Russian military positions, which they insisted was not treason but necessary resistance against evil.
Sergei's peaceful tenure as an informant quickly took a dark turn when he was detained by Russian forces in 2024. The couple faced harrowing challenges, with Sergei enduring coercive interrogation tactics and Tatyana desperately seeking his whereabouts. After his release, the couple feared for their safety and began plotting an escape to Lithuania, a journey filled with deception, forged documents, and the generosity of their neighbors who aided their transition.
Successfully navigating their escape to Lithuania, the couple now resides in a shelter while grappling with the repercussions of their decision. Their actions have strained family relationships back in Russia, severing ties particularly with their son, who disapproves of their choices. Despite the ongoing conflict, they remain steadfast in their resolve to never return to a Russia they view as devoid of humanity—a principle deeply ingrained in their new life as asylum seekers in Europe.
In the wake of Russian aggression, Tatyana felt compelled to act when a military convoy passed their home. A message was sent through Telegram to a contact in Ukraine’s security services, sparking an unexpected turn in their lives. Over time, they became informants for Ukraine, sharing vital information about Russian military positions, which they insisted was not treason but necessary resistance against evil.
Sergei's peaceful tenure as an informant quickly took a dark turn when he was detained by Russian forces in 2024. The couple faced harrowing challenges, with Sergei enduring coercive interrogation tactics and Tatyana desperately seeking his whereabouts. After his release, the couple feared for their safety and began plotting an escape to Lithuania, a journey filled with deception, forged documents, and the generosity of their neighbors who aided their transition.
Successfully navigating their escape to Lithuania, the couple now resides in a shelter while grappling with the repercussions of their decision. Their actions have strained family relationships back in Russia, severing ties particularly with their son, who disapproves of their choices. Despite the ongoing conflict, they remain steadfast in their resolve to never return to a Russia they view as devoid of humanity—a principle deeply ingrained in their new life as asylum seekers in Europe.
