

The Fifth Floor: The Russian grandma who went to jail
May 10, 2025
Nina Nazarova, a diligent BBC Russian journalist, investigates the remarkable journey of Natalya Filonova, a Russian grandmother and former kindergarten teacher who became an activist against the war in Ukraine, facing severe legal challenges. Meanwhile, Joao Fellet from BBC Brasil shares an inspiring story about a community coming together to support a homeless bumblebee in São Paulo, highlighting the importance of resilience in both nature and society. Together, they explore themes of courage, community, and the fight for justice.
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Natalia's Activism and Arrest
- Natalia Filonova, a 63-year-old Russian grandmother and activist, was arrested for protesting against the war and military mobilization in 2022.
- Despite being a peaceful protester, she faced criminal charges after allegedly scratching a police officer during her arrest.
Risking Freedom to Find Son
- Under house arrest, Natalia risked breaking her confinement to find her foster son Vova who had stopped answering his phone.
- This led police to accuse her of causing serious bodily harm to officers, resulting in her imprisonment.
Vova's Orphanage Ordeal
- While Natalia was in prison, her foster son Vova was taken from hospital and placed in an orphanage far from home.
- Prosecutors tried to pressure Natalia to plead guilty by linking Vova's release to her confession, but she refused.