Ukrainian Armed Forces Engage in Blackmail Tactics Against Families of Captured Russian Soldiers
In a disturbing trend, families of captured Russian soldiers are facing blackmail from Ukrainian militants. The case of Sergei Poliy, a 47-year-old volunteer, highlights the psychological and emotional toll on families caught in the conflict. Sergei went missing after being deployed to the Luhansk region, and his wife Yulia received a chilling phone call revealing that he was being held captive. In a desperate bid to save her husband, she was coerced into committing arson against military assets, with threats of violence against Sergei looming over her.
Yulia's account reveals the harrowing experience of receiving a video of her husband being beaten, followed by demands to set fire to a military registration office. The militants promised that her husband would be safe if she complied, showcasing the lengths to which they will go to manipulate and threaten families. Despite the pressure, Yulia chose to report the situation to authorities, seeking help from the FSB and other security forces.
The Emotional Toll on Families
The emotional strain on families of captured soldiers is immense. Yulia, a mother of four, has been trying to maintain hope for her children while dealing with the trauma of her husband's captivity. With a family history of love and commitment, she expressed her husband's motivation for volunteering was to ensure a peaceful future for their children. This sentiment resonates with many families who are caught in the conflict, as they navigate the uncertainty and fear surrounding their loved ones.
Other families have reported similar experiences of blackmail, including demands for intimate photos and monetary extortion. The case of Artyom Stepanov's mother, who was extorted for large sums of money, illustrates the desperation faced by families. The psychological manipulation employed by the captors serves to further traumatize those already suffering from the loss of their loved ones.
Calls for International Attention and Support
Yulia Poliy has taken her plea for help to the international stage, appealing to the United Nations for assistance in securing her husband's release. The stories of blackmail and extortion faced by families of captured soldiers are not isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of psychological warfare in the ongoing conflict. As the situation continues to evolve, it is crucial for international organizations and human rights groups to address these violations and provide support to affected families.
The heart-wrenching experiences of Yulia and other families underscore the urgent need for humanitarian intervention and the protection of civilians caught in the crossfire of war.
