From New York to Moscow: The Unlikely Journey of Daniel Martindale
RUSSIA, JUL 15 – Daniel Martindale provided intelligence that aided Russian military operations in Ukraine and was granted citizenship after a complex rescue due to threats against his life, officials said.
- An American individual involved in espionage activities targeting Ukrainian forces on behalf of Russia was granted Russian citizenship and issued a passport during a ceremony in Moscow on July 15, 2025.
- Martindale had spent over two years in occupied Ukraine providing intelligence to Russian forces and was evacuated for his safety in late 2024 before applying for citizenship.
- The citizenship was awarded by Vladimir Putin's decree and presented by Denis Pushilin, who noted Martindale's demonstrated loyalty and risk to his life.
- Martindale declared Russia as his home and family and called becoming a Russian citizen a "dream," while Pushilin called the passport a sign of respect and gratitude.
- This event reflects Russia's recognition of an American who aided its military operations in Ukraine and suggests Moscow’s ongoing use of foreign supporters for strategic advantage.
29 Articles
29 Articles
Daniel Martindale, once a missionary, spies for Russia in Ukraine. He receives a Russian passport as a reward for his support of the Kremlin and pro-Russian troops.
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American Daniel Martindale, who transmitted information about the Armed Forces to Russia and directed fire on Ukrainian defenders near Vuhledar in the Donetsk region, received a Russian passport by order of Vladimir Putin.
"I thank Russia for accepting me," said Daniel Martindale in Russian, calling his country of adoption as a "family." - An American spying for Moscow in Ukraine receives Russian (International) citizenship. "I thank Russia for accepting me," said Daniel Martindale in Russian, calling his country of adoption as a "family." - An American spying for Moscow in Ukraine receives Russian (International) citizenship.
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