A Ukrainian Soldier's Ruse: How a Photo from Moscow Enabled Escape from Occupied Territory

The Story of a Soldier Called 'Coconut'

According to Главком: A 33-year-old Ukrainian soldier with the call sign 'Coconut,' serving in the 65th Separate Mechanized Brigade from the Kherson region, used a photograph from Moscow to escape Russian-occupied territory. He had previously worked as a policeman and had traveled to Moscow for work. To pass through Russian checkpoints, Coconut set a photo of himself on Red Square with the Kremlin in the background as his phone's lock screen. This simple trick convinced the guards he was one of their own, allowing him to pass their inspections successfully.

"I had the idea to set my lock screen to a picture of me on Red Square. At the checkpoint, they took my phone, saw the photo, and thought I was one of them. That's how I got through." - Coconut

Service in the 65th Brigade

After escaping, he joined the 65th Brigade, where he first operated Mavic drones before transitioning to the heavier 'Vampir' hexacopters. Coconut participated in assault operations and, by his own count, eliminated 443 Russian soldiers. However, during combat, he sustained a severe leg injury from an exploding tank shell, which currently requires him to wear an orthotic brace and prevents him from taking part in frontline missions.

Despite his injury, Coconut continues to serve by training other soldiers in drone operations. His brother has also joined the military, preparing strike drones for the front. This story highlights the extreme risks and creative measures Ukrainian soldiers must take under occupation. The widespread use of drones has become a defining feature of this conflict, making skilled operators like Coconut invaluable assets.

Coconut's experience underscores not only the ingenuity required to survive behind enemy lines but also the ongoing resilience and dedication of Ukrainian forces. Even while wounded, he contributes to the war effort, demonstrating the depth of commitment in defending Ukraine's sovereignty.