Kevin Lik: Teenage prisoner swapped by Russia felt like ‘hostage’
Kevin Lik, a 19-year-old with dual Russian and German citizenship, was arrested in Russia for treason after protesting against the government. He spent time in a penal colony, where he faced harsh conditions and violence from other inmates. Lik was part of a prisoner swap on August 1, 2023, which included the return of a Russian assassin, leading him to feel like a pawn in a political game.
Before his arrest, Kevin was a bright student interested in politics, particularly after witnessing electoral manipulation in Russia. His mother, who had moved back to Russia with him, was detained, leaving Kevin vulnerable to the FSB's accusations. Despite the trauma of his imprisonment, he remains determined to engage in opposition activities and finish his education in Germany, where he has reunited with his mother.
Kevin's story highlights the complexities of identity and the impact of political repression on young individuals. He expresses a desire for change rather than revenge, emphasizing the importance of family and personal freedom.