KHARKIV, Ukraine (AP) — Viktor appeared nervous as masked Ukrainian security officers in full riot gear, camouflage and weapons pushed into his cluttered apartment in the northern city of Kharkiv. His hands trembled and he tried to cover his face.
The middle-aged man came to the attention of Ukraine’s Security Service, the SBU, after what authorities said were his social media posts praising Russian President Vladimir Putin for “fighting with the Nazis,” calling for regions to secede and labeling the national flag “a symbol of death.”
“Yes, I supported (the Russian invasion of Ukraine) a lot. I’m sorry. … I have already changed my mind,” said Viktor, his trembling voice showing clear signs of duress in the presence of the Ukrainian security officers.
Russia’s invasion cheerleaders: ‘Sisters for Victory’ don nurses’ outfits with controversial ‘Z’ emblem as they pose with occupying troops in Ukraine
Dressed in nurses’ uniforms from a bygone era, social media influencers and models pose by tanks in a crude effort to boost Russian war propaganda.
The smiling group – called ‘Sisters for Victory’ – mingled with Vladimir Putin’s troops as their uniforms displayed the Z sign promoting the brutal invasion of Ukraine.
Online posts claimed some of the women are ‘wives and girlfriends’ of servicemen fighting in Ukraine.
