Standing With Andrii: Faith, Truth, & Hope in the Middle of the Storm

There are moments in this mission when the work feels heavy, not because we doubt God, but because the injustice facing real people is impossible to ignore. We have recently had one of those moments. 

We want to share, openly and honestly, what has been unfolding with one of our brothers, Andrii, and why your prayers, support, and unity matter now more than ever.

What Happened When We Suddenly Lost Contact With Andrii?

Recently, we lost contact with Andrii while he was on a transport assignment in Croatia. His phone went silent. No internet. No responses from the clients who arranged the transfer. Those hours were filled with uncertainty and prayer.

We asked our community to pray for:

• Andrii’s safety and health

• Restored communication

• God’s clarity and protection

We trusted that God is still in control, even when we cannot see what is happening behind the scenes.

How Did the Truth About Andrii’s Arrest Come to Light?

The following day, we received heartbreaking news. Andrii had been arrested by Croatian authorities and accused of transporting illegal migrants.

After speaking with him directly, it became clear: he was set up.

Illegal passengers were placed in the vehicle without his understanding of the situation or the consequences. What initially appeared to be a misunderstanding quickly revealed itself to be something far more troubling.

This was not an accident. And it was not isolated.

Is This an Isolated Incident or Part of a Larger Pattern?

As we began investigating, we uncovered deeply concerning information. Others had experienced the exact same situation.

Through firsthand testimonies, we learned that a systematic scheme has been operating for years, where people are detained under nearly identical circumstances, often without proper investigation, then held in detention centers for extended periods of time, creating incentives for authorities based on how long individuals remain in custody.

This is not just about Andrii. This is about truth.

We are actively connecting with individuals who have endured the same treatment, gathering detailed case information and legal histories, identifying lawyers who have successfully helped others in similar situations, and preparing to address this issue publicly and responsibly.

We will not stay silent when people are suffering.

What Has God Already Begun to Uncover?

We were able to reach the Ambassador of Ukraine to Croatia, who has taken Andrii’s case under personal supervision. This alone is a powerful step forward.

We also secured legal representation after navigating a discouraging reality: one lawyer demanded €15,000, another asked for €10,000, and only afterward did we find a lawyer willing to take the case for €6,250. This only confirmed what we already suspected: this is a scheme designed to exploit vulnerable people for profit.

And we are committed to breaking it:

• Spiritually

• Legally

• Publicly

Why Are We Sharing This Story Publicly?

We have learned that 119 Ukrainians have suffered through this same scheme over the years. That number stopped us in our tracks.

Too many lives disrupted. Too many families waiting. Too much silence.

Andrii’s case is now moving forward. A consul is scheduled to visit him, and efforts are underway to expedite a court hearing so he can be released and return home.

We don’t yet know where God will take this story, but we do know He is present in it.

How Can You Stand With Family of Christ?

Right now, we ask you to:

• Pray for Andrii and his family

• Pray for truth to come fully into the light

• Pray for this corrupt system to be dismantled

• Support and share our official updates when they are released

• Stand with us in unity and faith

We are also actively supporting Andrii’s family and will not abandon this case.

At Family of Christ International, we believe hope does not disappear when things get hard—it becomes louder. And together, with God’s help, we will see justice move.

Thank you for standing with us. Thank you for praying. Thank you for believing that truth still has power.