“This is not the end of the world; it’s just a technical break”. The prison diary of businessman Oleg Varyukhin, accused of “treason” by Russia over Ukrainian taxes

July 21

My lawyer was here about 10 minutes ago. We signed the indictment protocol and, I believe, an interrogation record as well. Natasha is keeping watch near the courthouse, but I’ve been told the trial will take place tomorrow at 11:00 a.m. It’s an open hearing, so my dear can attend. The lawyer advised me to cooperate with the investigation. They said they’ll be taking me to a holding cell at Petrovka, 38, to await the trial.

I am now at the FSB headquarters, on Lubyanka. Don’t cry, my dear. I love you, as I do my whole family.

Semyon offered me some pizza—at least, he tried, but I declined politely. It felt a bit underhanded, if you ask me, but thanks to him nonetheless. I actually have food in my bag: porridge (a gift), sausage, tea, cheese, sweets, and chocolate. Natasha brought a care package. I split it up—left some for the guys at Sakharovo and brought the rest with me. I’m now waiting to be transported to the holding cell at Petrovka, 38.

I’m very worried about Natasha (she’s in tears). She said Vityusha and everyone else are in complete shock over the requested sentence and how things have unfolded.

I probably won’t be able to write any more today; they’ll likely take my pen away. Besides, I’m exhausted: I spent the last 24 hours sitting on a stool, and they brought me here around 7:00 a.m. They kept me waiting in the transport vehicle until 10:00 a.m., then dragged me into this 3x3 meter cage with my belongings. I’ve only left to walk down the hall to the restroom or to see the investigators; the rest of the time, I’ve just been sitting here.

It’s getting dark. Maybe I’ll have a bite to eat once I arrive at the holding cell. I just hope it’s at least somewhat clean in there; hard to eat or sleep when the place reeks of piss.

The window is open, there are few cars around—the city center has gone quiet here. People are out enjoying themselves, while there’s a case being trumped up against me. Good God! How awful—and for absolutely nothing!

I want to mention how it all began: July 20th, 8:30 p.m., at the Sakharovo facility. When my term ended, they brought me out of my cell with all my belongings. I shook hands with all my cellmates, wishing that we’d never cross paths again there. They handed me a document stating that I had no complaints against the staff, along with my release papers. That same document also serves as a ticket for public transport: everything except planes and taxi.

But I wasn’t destined to walk free. Before I could reach the gates, three FSB operatives put me into a Toyota Camry and drove me to Vnukovo Airport. They took me to a room where I sat on a chair until this morning. When I needed to use the restroom—pardon the detail—I had to urinate into the toilet while one or two guards stood right behind me. Maybe they were making sure I didn’t drown myself!

By the way, this is the sixth time they’ve hauled me around like this. I kept hoping it would all blow over, but no. According to the investigators, I’ve been “sponsoring” the Kyiv military regime—even though I was simply paying the mandatory taxes. Everyone who works pays them; every entrepreneur and employee has a line item on their payslip for a “military levy.” Yet, I’m the one they’ve decided to put on trial. As far as I know, there are no other precedents—just me.

August 4

A great mood and good health always help in finding comprehensive solutions to any problems. Sending you kisses—I love you! I look forward to hugs soon and to our life together ahead! I am in my right mind and sound memory. We will live a long, comfortable life together. After all, we are kind people, not mean or malicious. Do not part with your beloved! I am with you—in my thoughts and in my soul, always! See you soon. We’ll be together again, just like before! We have so much to do, and the children to look after! Forgive me for not being able to help you—or anyone else—right now, but once I leave this place, I will take care of everything our family needs. I am gathering my strength and potential for that. Don’t give up. Kisses! ♡

We absolutely must have a neon sign for the shop in Chișinău! Something unique, with vibrant colors.

I went out for a walk. Did some pull-ups and climbed onto the parallel bars—got a little bit of exercise in. It felt good. Washed my sweatpants; they had some dust and a few spots on them. Had dinner: an egg, some fruit (left behind by the previous occupants), bread, and coffee with milk.

I decided to write down something very important for us from a book: “If we stay in the same toxic state of anger, the same melancholy state of depression, the same vigilant state of anxiety, or the same low state of unworthiness, those redundant chemical signals we have talked about keep pushing the same genetic buttons, which ultimately cause the activation of certain diseases. Stressful emotions, as you will learn, actually pull the genetic trigger, dysregulating the cells (dysregulation refers to impairment of a physiological regulatory mechanism) and creating disease.”

Don’t let that happen. If you avoid it, everything will work out. We are Russian, so everything will be just fine ☺

If we don’t experience new (positive) sensations in life, our cells are deprived of an influx of fresh information from the world around us—information that is essential for strengthening the body’s systems and supporting both internal and external health. I’m about to wash up and head to bed. Good night, and sweet dreams! Sleep well!

August 5

Good morning, my love! How are you doing, how are you feeling? How is Georgy? Is he keeping his word—studying, playing sports, and spending time with interesting, intelligent people? What about languages ​​(Chinese, Romanian, Russian, etc.)? And medicine, computer technology?

I woke up just past six this morning, thinking of you both. I said hello to you and had a little chat.

I went to the restroom, washed up, made my bed, and lay back down. My sweatpants are almost dry. Good.

God, I am so tired of being here. When will they let me out? I didn’t do anything ☹

August 13

My lawyer visited today. I handed over a stack of documents: letter to the president, copy of my appeal, diary, list of questions for review, and some advice. I also told him about the lives of the other “guinea pigs” here. I’ve asked him to develop a [defense] strategy.

After lunch (we had a decent tomato and potato soup + rice with meat), I read your letter (diary entries). It’s wonderful that you’re writing this. I’ve sent one off, too. We’ll need to get it published as a book later on. They wouldn’t let the lawyer pass anything on to me, but that’s alright. We have everything we need here.

Whether it’s the staff’s doing or an official directive, they keep all the rules—and everything else that goes on here—hidden. I’ve mentioned this before. At least there’s no pressure or mistreatment here. We didn’t get taken out for a walk today (it’s either too cold, or they’re just too busy).

Afterward, I just laid around, did some thinking, and looked at the photos. You’re all doing so well! I’m so glad the kids were able to visit and go to the seaside. Take good care of yourselves. I’m glad Viktor is handling things the right way; he’s a good man, though it’s tough for him. Like Zhora, he’s still just a kid. My best to Alenushka, Oleg, and the Tanyas. Sonya? Liza? Seryozha?

Teach Georgy everything—he’s still so little. He needs to be prepared for life: to know how to do things, to understand what to say to whom, what to show, and where and how to go about things. And most importantly, he must know that family comes first! He should feel free to talk to his parents about anything at all, without any embarrassment, even about girls.

He looks so grown up in the photos! Don’t let his language studies or music practice slide.

It’s getting dark now; we’ll be heading to bed soon. I’ve washed up and had some rosehip tea. I need to get a pair of plastic-framed glasses made, following my old prescription. And a simple plastic case. Sometimes they come in handy (for fine print, for example). My cellmate, Andrei, is rolling his own cigarettes! He’s got tobacco, paper, filters, and a rolling machine. The tobacco actually has a pleasant smell. I think I’ll watch some TV—the movie Papillon (USA). Very fitting, indeed.

Alright, good night. I still need to squeeze the last bits of cream and toothpaste out of the old tubes. I do have new ones, though! ☺ Just opened them yesterday. You know how thrifty I am. Love you all, you handsome bunch!

August 14

07:18 a.m. Good morning, my dears! I woke up today ≈6:10, with the reveille. Got up, went to the restroom, washed up, and made my bed. Did some light exercise. It’s a cool morning, but sunny, ≈12°C.

I think I’ll mop the floor today (my cellmate did it last time). I’ll read, do some thinking, and look at some photos. I so want to be with you: walk on the hills by the lake, go to the market for juice and halva, play tennis, do pull-ups, and listen to Georgy ☺

Anyway, time to eat my porridge. I’m really glad you went to the Toyota dealership; go ahead and take a test drive, see what it’s like. When I get back, we’ll buy one. We’ll definitely need a car.

1:10 p.m. We’ve already had lunch. It was a decent chicken rassolnik and rice with meat (tushonka). It tastes fine, but I’d much rather be out of here—let them enjoy it themselves.

5:03 p.m. Just got back from our walk. We had a good time: got some exercise in, and I finished a few more exercises back in the cell. Also watched a TV show—a trivia game about Soviet cartoons. We decided to do the cleaning tomorrow. Waiting for dinner now. Love you. During the walk, Andrei told me a bit about his time in Sakharovo and how [his wife] Oksana and her mother tried to fight for him.

I got your letter! Kozhanka the cat really gets around—at home, in the building entrance, out on the street, and even at our place. That’s really something! Someone needs to show who’s the real boss of the house!

A third person has been moved into our cell. He’s 29, goes by the name Max. He’s in for the same charge. It’s a nightmare: he’s already been in here for two years. Has a ton of stuff with him. He’s also someone who likes to stay warm. From Kolomna. Brought us some food (tea, cookies). Right now, he’s unpacking his things.

August 15

07:23 a.m. Good morning, my Loved Ones! I woke up today just past six (meaning I actually got out of bed). Maxim is writing a letter, though they don’t collect mail today (it’s Saturday). He’s developed a nervous tic here—can you imagine? He was tortured with electric shocks. And he’s not the only one.

It’s a bit chaotic. We’re watching TV; Andrei is up and making coffee for us—and for himself (of course). That’s how things are. Breakfast has arrived: pearl barley (I assume, leftovers from yesterday’s dinner, just reheated).

Maybe I should write to Interpol about being detained illegally and held against my will.

We played backgammon (1:1). Andrei went to make a call and came back saying you’d spoken with Oksana and put some money into my account. I’ll try to order something today. The weather is sunny but cool, ≈+12°C.

11:30 a.m. Half an hour ago, a detention center officer came for me. He showed me a photo and claimed I’d committed a violation yesterday: I didn’t keep my hands behind my back while walking from the shower. I had to sign a report and write a statement promising not to break the rules again, so there you have it ☹ They’re watching us.

8:40 p.m. We had some time outside (I did pull-ups—had to jump to reach the bar, but I managed, so that’s good). The guys are watching some nonsense on TV—a fantasy show about the devil. It’s a nightmare, honestly. Tomorrow is Sunday; we’ll scrub the floors and just keep going. It’s supposed to get warmer outside.

August 16

07:32 a.m. Top of the morning to you, my dears! I’ve done my morning exercises. Before that, I made my bed (or “shkonar,” how they say in prison). Maxim watched a bunch of fantasy stuff yesterday—now he’s drawing a girl on an A4 sheet—and Andrei is still resting. On TV, there’s a show called “100 Places to Eat” (it’s not bad—a bit of a travelogue mixed with food; you’d like it, check it out). I had an americano and a piece of chocolate. I think I’ll tidy up the cell now. Then comes the security check, after which I’ll just lay down and read. It’s hellishly boring.

11:34 a.m. A quick, routine security check just passed. We aren’t involving Maxim; he’s the one feeding us for now.

You know, I’ve been thinking about the store’s design and concluded that it needs to be very bright, both inside and out. In areas with neon signs, we’ll need to create some artificial dimming.

Colors: black, white, and red (a black frame with a white and bright red border). Plus, neon “Prado” signs (in red or a vibrant pink), with everything else in bright white.

We’re watching the movie “The Covenant” (about Afghanistan) on TV. I’ve washed my socks, a T-shirt, and my sweatpants—the knees had started to bag out. I think I need to get a new blue tracksuit to swap into. Good night. Lights out soon. Sending you tender kisses—sweet dreams! ♡

August 17

09:14 a.m. Good morning, my dears! I woke up, washed up, and did some exercises. Breakfast arrived—cracked-grain porridge. I added some jam and ate it. You know, listening to my cellmates talk... it’s just too much. They don’t seem stupid, but the things they come out with—they’re just not my kind of people, absolutely not. We’re sitting here, waiting for the security check. They’ve swapped our bedding for “clean” sets.

I want to be with you.

We just had a security check; they took a bunch of things from our Maxim and sent them off to the storage area. It’s going to be hard for him to draw now—they cut his art supplies in half.

8:37 p.m. Good evening. We’re back from our walk—they’ve been rather short lately.

Listen, during the Second World War, the Red Cross used to issue passports to people without citizenship—maybe they still issue “world citizen” passports? (I’m being completely serious.) Back then, Jews and Germans even used them to travel to the U.S., where they were accepted as refugees.

Also! Maybe the Moldovan authorities could request my transfer based on my place of registration!

Max and I are just sitting here. I’m writing, and he’s working on a portrait that took shape in his mind.

I love you, beautiful; I have no idea how you manage to handle everything on your own! It’s beyond me.

August 18

Good morning! Wishing you good luck, health, love, and kindness!

I got up between 6:10 and 6:15. There was a knock at the door, and a voice called out: “Time to get up, open your eyes, rise and shine!” Max was the first to get up, then I followed. I went through my usual morning routine: used the restroom, made my bed, and opened one half [of the window]. I washed up and did some light stretching. I’m writing this now while the others are still resting. We’re waiting for breakfast.

Georgy needs some jackets for the autumn, there’s might not be as good a selection later. Something lightweight but warm. A new hat, too. What about his footwear? He probably needs some new shoes as well. And don’t forget about yourself—everything should be both comfortable and cute. You’re all such smart and good-looking girls (and boys)! ☺ ♡

I’m about to have my americano with a piece of chocolate. After that, it’s time for the security check, and so on. The weather looks clear. It would be just the thing—if not for the bars on the windows.

There’s a snack called a “corn dog” (sausage or half of one, coated in cornmeal batter; skewered on a small stick, lightly fried, and served with sauce). The guys should consider adding it to their menu; that would be great. They should look it up online—it’s featured on the show “100 Places to Eat.” It would be a nice for change (and it’s easy to make).

I heard a rumor—sounds like a joke, but apparently it’s serious—that they’re carrying out an exchange of “enemies of the people” over in Belarus.

Maxim just got moved somewhere else—right in the middle of the security check. Then we had a “shakedown” in our cell, I gather that happens whenever someone arrives or leaves. We had one too, back when Andrei and I first moved in. You know, I caught myself thinking that every single day, I’m just waiting for the day to end, for it to start all over again, and then for it to be over as quickly as possible.

August 19

07:32 a.m. Top of the morning to you, my Dears! I woke up at exactly 6:00 today, lounged around for about 10 minutes, and then got up. The usual routine: bathroom, washing up, and some exercise. Andrei is still lounging—he’s just getting up now.

While I do my morning workout, I keep the Izvestia news feed on, muted. They post various updates, and I read a few things while I exercise. Someone named Kobyakov (I believe he’s in the Russian President’s inner circle) writes that businesspeople are showing interest in relocating to the Russian Federation—apparently, they’re considered “loyal.” Maybe this could help us, too. After all, I’m sitting here for no reason; perhaps some changes are on the horizon.

I keep thinking about the move to Chișinău. Give some real thought to [what our future home should be like]: something new, warm, small, and cozy; not too high up, with a loggia or a little balcony, and located close to the college and the trolleybus and bus stops. That’s very important for you and for us. As for here—well, maybe reason will eventually prevail, and all this hatred and malice will come to an end.

May there be love, tolerance, and a humane attitude toward everything that breathes and moves. That is how happiness will find its way into our world. Wow, that sounds big, I know, but I truly believe it. I love you all and send you big hugs! Give a pet to some cat over there—make sure it’s a sweet, affectionate, beautiful one.

August 20

07:27 a.m. Top of the morning to you, my Dears! I woke up on schedule, lounged around for a bit, and got moving. Used the restroom, brushed my teeth, and did my daily exercises, all while listening to the news from Izvestia. Kobyakov came out with another good quote: “Russia is open to pragmatic ties with Western companies.”

There’s been a prisoner exchange involving soldiers, and 62 polling stations are being set up in 62 “unfriendly” countries for the State Duma elections. By the way, I forgot to ask: what happened to my letter to the President of the Russian Federation?

Breakfast arrived: buckwheat. I ate some, then made myself a sandwich (white bread with butter and two pieces of cheese; my cellmate, Max, left us about 150 grams of cheese). We’ve sliced ​​it up and have been nibbling on it bit by bit.

1:30 p.m. Lunch has arrived: rassolnik with chicken and pasta with chicken. Everything here seems to come with either chicken, beef, or canned stewed meat—but there’s always meat! ☺ In the evenings, it’s usually fish. So, no need to buy me any sausage.

My personal account hasn’t been topped up. Honestly, maybe it’s better not to add any funds—I’ll just let you know in my letters whenever I need something. Before lunch, I received the package you sent. Super! Halva, coffee, gingerbread, cheese, sausage, marmalade, pastila, tea, milk, onions, and garlic.

Sometimes they don’t provide toilet paper or soap here. Every now and then, we’ll buy a lemon or an onion. I’m hoping I’ll be released once they sort things out, so I don’t think I’ll be placing orders for much longer! ☺

6:15 p.m. Just got back from our walk. Had a good time out! Did some exercises on the pull-up bar and parallel bars. The music was blaring, though (they play the radio really loud).

6:40 p.m. Dinner arrived: boiled rice, fish + a spoonful of fresh, chopped cabbage. Rubbish. But we added some tea and gingerbread cookies, which made it decent enough. Thanks! Watching TV now. It’s a real shame we aren’t together. It’s quite dreary.

August 21

07:22 a.m. Good morning, my beauties! I got up, washed, made my bed, and did some exercises. I think the world is just, and that I should get out of here as soon as possible to reunite with my beloved family. The world—both human society and the community of the Universe—cannot allow the innocent to suffer. Therefore, I remain hopeful and expectant of a resolution.

We might have an inspection with a general today. It’s also our scheduled day for a shower. Oh, they’re already rolling the breakfast cart past the cell doors—that means ours will be here soon. We had sechka (crushed barley porridge); I added a bit of butter, and it tasted much better! I want to go home.

10:43 a.m. We’ve had our inspection; I even took a turn as the cell orderly. Right after that, we were taken to the showers, and we got cleaned up. It felt wonderful, so pleasant to splash around in some hot water.

Honey, you mentioned that you find it difficult to make decisions without me. I don’t think that’s the case. If you look back at the history of our family, every decision you’ve made has been the right one—and successful, too.

Yes, some of those decisions may have radically shifted things in the moment (like when we were traveling), but they were always clear and correct. And I, for my part, was able to contribute by helping to expand upon and implement those major changes.

The most important thing is that you stay healthy (both physically and mentally) and that you find happiness in doing work that is both right and necessary. It’s also vital that you remain free in your choices and actions. New connections and the proper documentation (for us) are opening up a path toward freedom—because freedom of thought is, truly, of the utmost importance.

August 21 — September 9

Andrei suggests I get some vitamins: magnesium + B6 (for my joints) and a blister pack of paracetamol. I also need a pair of glasses based on my prescription; the cheapest ones available—plastic frames, plastic lenses, and a hard plastic case. (The prescription details are already in my current glasses.) Oh, and I need a small, paper pocket calendar for 2026.

Could you also get a plastic foot file—nothing too coarse (an inexpensive one, maybe from the brand Stalex)? Once I’m out, we can sell these kinds of things here, too; the stuff currently on sale is absolute junk. There are no NC brand creams here, nor any from DD (“Domashniy Doktor”) on sale (especially the ones with panthenol or urea). Anyway, we’re waiting for an security check and a response from the shop (regarding my order).

Andrey put on a film called “Messing” (about a hypnotist and clairvoyant from the time of the Second World War). Maybe there are people like that in Moldova, too? Messing never got anything wrong—I’m referring to his predictions about the war with Ukraine. You might want to check out the “Wolf Messing” series; it’s quite interesting.

11:44 a.m. We had our security check. Everything’s fine; I’ve been reading a book. Suddenly, the food slot opened, and someone called out: “Pirogov and Varyukhin, come get your provisions!” I jumped up, startled, like a madman! And they were from you, my dear—actual provisions! There’s some excellent Borodinsky bread, a poppy-seed roll, and sour cream! Thank you so much. Andrei got some butter and a casserole (I didn’t want one—it was tiny, cold, and expensive!). So, we’re all set—we’ll have something for breakfast.

You and Georgy really should take a trip to the island of Guam; it’s home to the Chamorro people. It’s a U.S. overseas territory, not far from Japan. The town is full of duty-free shops, and you don’t need any special paperwork to take goods out. There are affordable hotels and cafés, too—so you can live it up or keep things budget-friendly, just the way we like it. You absolutely have to go! Especially Georgy. You can stay for up to 45 days without a visa!

6:25 p.m. We went for a walk and did a bit of studying. The walk lasted just under an hour, but we managed to catch some sun—even spent about 5–10 minutes sunbathing. Though, the tan might end up looking a bit like a grid pattern! Back home, we watched the series “Plaksa,” and I did some more studying.

At 6:00 p.m., I received two letters: one from our son and one from you, honey.

Hello, my handsome boy! I’m so glad you were able to write. It’s very important to me that you grow up to be a smart, healthy, and caring young man. Thank you for your support; I really have no one else to rely on here—except for you, our family, the Lord, and the universal supreme intelligence. It governs the universe and wisely puts everything in its proper place. I also believe that my situation will be resolved, as I am not guilty of anything. I love you.

Make sure to take care of yourself (identify all your shortcomings and root them out). Take the initiative to eliminate these flaws (I gave your mom the title of a book; be sure to read it all the way through). Think carefully about what’s written in it. Dig in, don’t just skim the surface.

I find it quite useful. And on top of that, sports and languages ​​(lots of them!) will help shape you into a fine person. You’re already doing a great job, though! Your studies are also very important; choose a field that truly resonates with you and master it. As for what your mom and I like—well, you know: computer technology, medicine (any specialty), and languages. Sending you a big hug, I’m proud of you ☺

Now, regarding your letter, honey: I’m glad to hear everything is going so well for you both. Send the photos to the lawyer; he’ll print them out and bring them to me. It’s wonderful that the weather is warm where you are. Enjoy the summer and the autumn. Take some time to rest between your jobs. Feed on nature’s offerings, gain strength!

Regarding the passport, that’s all correct. I wonder if she gave you my SIM card. Withdraw all the funds from it and close the account. The passport is mine—ours—but certainly not theirs.

They’ve already stolen enough from me as it is. Even though I support Russia and its interests. These people are causing harm and plundering our Motherland. They mislead everyone, all just to line their own pockets with bigger paychecks! They have neither shame nor a conscience. They’re nothing more than an undercover gang.

I gather you’re going to be launching a shop. Excellent. Make sure everything looks great. Be selective with your inventory—only stock items of the highest quality! Don’t just take anything and everything; only bring in other items if they’re specifically ordered. You don’t need any junk.

If you end up moving, make sure to check that everything is in working order (heating, water, internet, no leaks). The apartment should be just the way we like it: on a lower floor, somewhere in the middle of the building, compact, warm, not in a low-lying area (or up on a hill), and it should be close to a LINELLA store and a trolleybus line that’s convenient for getting to college and work. The price should be reasonable, the landlords should be decent, and there ought to be a nice place nearby for taking walks. Ideally, it should be a new property or located in a good area.

Oh, and what about my phone? I lost it, you know. It’s best to block it so that telemarketers don’t keep calling.

You went to the UN (in Chișinău), but regarding my situation, you should speak with a lawyer or a Moldovan attaché. Specifically about the defence (in light of my unlawful detention, groundless criminal prosecution, and illegal arrest). I haven’t done anything wrong to Russia.

I watched a program about the Hainan [province]. Very cool. It’s in China. I liked the surfers’ village and the Islamic quarter (home to Chinese people who practice Islam).

10:39 a.m. Just had a security check. And we’ve already had a chance to shower. It’s great, though, as always, it happened without any warning. I want so badly to be with you and get back to work; instead, I’m sitting here for no reason, and we’re just wasting time. Please, try reaching out to the UN, the Red Cross, or other organisations that work with Russia. It’s dumb how they locked me up for no reason ☺ But I’m not nervous nor anxious.

September 10

All days are equally boring, I live only for future things and meetings. I also find myself thinking about all our folks. I wonder how they’re doing ☹☹☺♡

September 11

We had the security check. They placed Andrei in the square, and me by the line. Our supervisor is incredibly strict—there’s always something he’s unhappy about, day in and day out. But I don’t let it bother me. I asked about the standard-issue supplies—toilet paper, soap, razors, and so on. At first, the supervisor tried to joke, saying he’d run to the “Five” to get some, but then he told me to just submit a formal request.

Before the inspection, I was reading a book—the one I mentioned to you before, “Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself” by Joe Dispenza. It’s really well-written; it explains how we (as humans) can become habituated to certain feelings—essentially, how the body ends up controlling our emotions ☹

One must approach the solution to any problem [illegible]. Think it through and bombard the “problem” from various angles, using different approaches and forces.

I received a copy of the appeal. I liked it, everything is written correctly and clearly. You know, honey, it really lifted my spirits. I was also very heartened to know that the Motherland remembers—that the Motherland knows. I love you, and I place my trust in you and in the Lord ☺

The main thing is not to cry or get upset, for we are not guilty of anything.

No date

I was called in for a video conference regarding my appeal. The audio quality was so poor that I could barely make out anything. Yuri Lvovich [Shel, the lawyer,] said he would come for a visit tomorrow and explain everything to me.

Later, a whole group of officials (a major, a lieutenant colonel + local staff) arrived and started poking around, inspecting everything; they cleared us out to the exercise yard. It seems people have been lodging complaints—there’s certainly plenty to complain about, whether it concerns daily living conditions or how cases are being handled. The time in the exercise yard was short, and the space itself was a bit grimy—but the main thing is, there’s a pull-up bar.

8:00 p.m. You mentioned that Georgy is worried about me. Please reassure him. I’m hopeful that everything will work out. Tell him to focus on his studies and his activities (sports, music). That would be the greatest motivation for me. Especially since I am completely innocent. I’m going to go lie down for about 10 minutes. Love you all.

Editor: Maria Klimova