Ukrainian Orphan Forced to Film Pro-Russian Videos Escapes to Fight for Kyiv
Al Jazeera · world
Denys Kostev, 22, recounts his harrowing experience as an orphan in Kherson during the Russian invasion. Initially filming anti-Russian videos, he was forcibly moved to occupied Crimea and compelled to participate in pro-Russian propaganda for state television networks to ensure his survival. Kostev stated he felt he had no choice but to play the role to live. He has since escaped and is preparing to fight for Ukraine. Ukraine is working to return children allegedly abducted by Russia, with thousands having been returned so far.