A U.S. national, Daniel Martindale, has been granted Russian citizenship for his efforts in gathering intelligence on Ukrainian forces to assist Moscow’s military campaign, according to officials in the Russian-controlled Donetsk region.
The announcement, made on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, was authorized by a decree from President Vladimir Putin.
Martindale operated in Ukraine for over two years following the start of Russia’s 2022 offensive, relaying critical location data of military sites to Russian intelligence.
Official Endorsement
Denis Pushilin, leader of the Russian-administered Donetsk area, hailed Martindale’s dedication via a Telegram post, noting,
“His loyalty and deeds have firmly established him as part of our community.”
Pushilin emphasized Martindale’s resilience in enemy territory, his vital support to Russian troops, and the personal risks he took to share key information.
The citizenship was formally presented to Martindale at a Moscow ceremony with interior ministry representatives, captured in a video shared by Pushilin.
Personal Reflections
During the event, Martindale expressed his gratitude, stating, “I’m thankful to Russia for welcoming me,” and called his new citizenship a “long-held aspiration.”
In the video, he added in Russian, “Russia has become both my home and my family.”
Pushilin revealed that Martindale was safely brought to Russia in late 2024 through a challenging rescue mission after his safety was compromised.
Reports indicate he applied for citizenship in November 2024, with a Telegram account believed to be his thanking the soldiers who aided his escape.
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