Summary

Russia targets vulnerable relatives of Ukrainian prisoners of war (PoWs), pressuring them to commit sabotage or espionage in exchange for promises of better treatment or release of loved ones.

Svitlana, whose husband was a PoW, was coerced to sabotage Ukraine’s military infrastructure but stalled and reported the approach to Ukrainian authorities, who emphasize that cooperation worsens prisoners’ situations.

It’s estimated 50% of PoW families are contacted by Russian agents, but most refuse.

Svitlana’s husband was eventually released unharmed, despite threats to his life.