A recent investigation by the Associated Press has shed light on Russia's successful imposition of passports on a vast majority of the occupied Ukrainian population. Through a combination of coercion and incentives, Russia has effectively compelled hundreds of thousands of individuals into obtaining citizenship, a move strategically timed ahead of elections Vladimir Putin is poised to win. However, the acceptance of Russian passports comes with significant consequences, particularly for men residing in the occupied territories, who may be conscripted to fight against the very Ukrainian army aiming to liberate them.
Russian passports have become essential for proving property ownership, accessing healthcare, and securing retirement benefits. Refusal to acquire one can lead to dire repercussions, including loss of custody, imprisonment, or worse. Furthermore, a new Russian law threatens imprisonment for individuals in occupied territories who fail to obtain Russian citizenship by a specified deadline.
Despite these coercive measures, Russia also offers inducements such as financial aid, pensions, and even stipends for relocation to Russia. Each passport issued further complicates Ukraine's efforts to reclaim its territories and population while providing Russia with a pretext—albeit unfounded—to defend its citizens against perceived threats from neighboring Ukraine.
The investigation revealed a grim reality: Russian authorities have seized numerous properties and businesses in occupied regions, while a significant number of soldiers reported dead in recent conflicts were likely Ukrainian citizens who had obtained Russian passports.
Numerous individuals interviewed for the investigation, including activists and government officials, highlighted the bureaucratic and psychological challenges posed by Russia's citizenship imposition tactics. Despite international laws prohibiting forced allegiance to a hostile power, Ukrainians applying for Russian passports must submit biometric data, swear loyalty oaths, and relinquish personal information—a process that effectively transforms them into tools for Russia's agenda.
Russia's tactics have evolved since the annexation of Crimea in 2014, with a combination of coercion and enticements aimed at facilitating the acquisition of Russian citizenship by Ukrainians. Notably, recent legislation has facilitated passport acquisition by lifting residency and income requirements, with severe penalties imposed on those who resist.
Moreover, Russia's weaponization of healthcare has further exacerbated the plight of those without Russian passports. Denial of vital medical care to individuals lacking Russian citizenship has become increasingly common, effectively creating a system where access to healthcare is contingent upon allegiance to Russia.
In addition to coercive measures, Russia is actively importing its own citizens into occupied territories, offering preferential mortgage rates and other incentives for relocation. This deliberate demographic shift further solidifies Russia's hold on seized territories, a strategy reminiscent of its actions following the annexation of Crimea.
Despite the immense challenges and dangers faced by those resisting Russian imposition, stories of resilience and defiance persist. Individuals like Natalia Zhyvohliad, who resisted pressure to obtain a Russian passport until the threat of her children being conscripted into the Russian military became too great, exemplify the courage and determination of Ukrainians caught in the crossfire of geopolitical conflict.
Ultimately, Russia's imposition of citizenship on occupied Ukrainian territories represents a multifaceted assault on the sovereignty and identity of the Ukrainian people, with far-reaching implications for regional stability and international relations.
