A Russian security source revealed that it received more than 3,500 requests in May from relatives of Ukrainian servicemen requesting their surrender or to search for missing members.
The source told Russia's TASS news agency: "We have received 3,586 letters from the families of Ukrainian soldiers , informing them of their sons' desire to surrender or inquiring about the fate of their missing sons."
He added that 24 surrender operations were successfully organized, with Ukrainian soldiers laying down their weapons and voluntarily surrendering to Russian forces.
The source explained that most of the requests are still under review, noting that the process is "complex, delicate, and conducted away from public view."
He also revealed the use of the "Save Your Life" chat bot on Telegram to facilitate communication for this purpose.
He continued, "Relatives of soldiers stationed in Sumy Province are sending messages of encouragement, including videos and Russian patriotic songs, urging them to surrender."
In a related development, former Ukrainian soldier Bespartushny, who was captured by Russian forces, submitted a request to President Vladimir Putin to obtain Russian citizenship after contacting his family.
It turned out that his mother and sister are Russian citizens and reside in Russia, while his aunt lives in the United States. His wife and child remain in Ukraine, and his relatives have sent him video recordings urging him to remain in Russia.
