Residents of Donetsk and Crimea, some of whom have fought as part of illegal armed formations since 2014, voluntarily joined the Russian army after the full-scale invasion. Holding "positions" as drivers, shooters, commanders, or their deputies, they fought in eastern Ukraine, particularly in the Pokrovsk direction.

From August to October 2025, Ukrainian servicemen detained 11 occupiers in Donetsk. Under the procedural guidance of the Donetsk Regional Prosecutor's Office, they were informed of suspicion of treason and collaborationist activities (parts 1, 2 of Article 111, part 7 of Article 111-1 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine).

They face life imprisonment with the deprivation of the right to hold certain positions or engage in certain activities for 15 years and confiscation of property.

The pre-trial investigation is conducted by the Main Directorate of the Security Service of Ukraine in Donetsk and Luhansk regions.