Those accused of espionage in Odessa are being attempted to be returned to their homeland.

      April 19, 2026 17:05 Society The Commissioner for Human Rights in Russia, Tatyana Moskalkova, is addressing the issue of the release and repatriation of a couple from Nizhny Novgorod, who were accused of espionage in Ukraine. She mentioned this in an interview with TASS. "Today we continue to work on the release of the family from Nizhny Novgorod. A young couple, husband and wife, with two daughters. They ran a small shop near Odessa. They were arrested and charged with espionage. We consider such charges to be absolutely absurd and unproven," Moskalkova stated. The ombudsperson clarified that she first learned about this situation from the girls' grandmother. After the parents' arrest, the children were left in Ukraine without guardianship. The Russian side has requested the return of the children to Russia. This was facilitated by the Ukrainian ombudsperson and the International Committee of the Red Cross — the girls were taken to the border. Meanwhile, the parents remain in custody, and legal proceedings against them are ongoing. The couple is in a serious condition, and their health has significantly deteriorated in custody. "And we will continue the dialogue regarding their return," the ombudsperson added. It was previously reported that a resident of Nizhny Novgorod returned home from Ukrainian captivity on the eve of Easter. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has a Telegram channel. Subscribe to stay updated on major events, exclusive materials, and operational information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". When republishing, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is mandatory. This resource may contain materials 18+