Biography
In May 2023, early in the morning, more than 10 people, 5 of whom were armed, broke into Maksim and Karina Zinchenko's home with a search. Crimean law enforcement officers initiated a criminal case against the head of the family for his religious beliefs.
Maksim was born in 1992 in the town of Stakhanov (Ukraine). He has a younger brother. Their father works at a construction site and their mother as a waitress in a sanatorium.
Maksim was into football as a child. After school, he graduated from college with a red diploma as a gas and electric welder with an admission to high-risk work. Maksim worked at a construction site. He lived in Yevpatoria, Feodosia, and after his criminal case was initiated, he was forced to move to Sevastopol.
Since childhood, Maksim liked to read the Bible — the love for this book was instilled by his parents. Over time, the gained knowledge motivated him to become one of Jehovah's Witnesses. In 2011, because of his peaceful beliefs, Maksim served alternative civilian service instead of military service, working as a janitor in a tram depot,.
Maksim met his future wife, Karina, through friends. His wife shares his views on life. The two got married in May 2015. Karina loves to read books, admires nature, especially sunrises and sunsets and does not miss the opportunity to take beautiful photos. Maksim still loves sports, especially football. Together with his wife and friends, he enjoys spending time in nature in mountains, taking pictures and editing videos.
The criminal case disrupted the family's plans for the near future. They spent their eighth wedding anniversary under house arrest of the head of the family. His wife supports Maksim in all his difficulties and hardships.
Zinchenko's relatives, including those who do not share their beliefs, and also their friends are outraged by the persecution of the peaceful believers.