A Russian father of three who fled his homeland to escape Vladimir Putin's military draft has revealed his shock after receiving conscription papers—while living in America.
The man, whose identity has been withheld for safety reasons, thought he had found refuge in the US after leaving Russia to avoid being sent to fight in Ukraine. However, his hopes were dashed when he was unexpectedly summoned to join the war effort—despite being thousands of miles away.
A Desperate Escape
The father described his decision to leave Russia as a last resort, fearing he would be forced into combat. "I didn’t want to kill or be killed for a war I don’t believe in," he said. "I thought America would be safe."
After securing a visa, he relocated with his family, believing he had left the threat of conscription behind. But in a cruel twist, Russian authorities tracked him down and issued a draft notice, demanding his return.
Caught in a Legal Nightmare
Legal experts suggest that Russia’s aggressive conscription policies extend beyond its borders, targeting expatriates and dual citizens. "This is a growing issue," said an immigration lawyer. "Many Russians abroad are being pressured to return and fight."
The man now faces an impossible choice: defy the order and risk repercussions for his family still in Russia, or return and face the horrors of war.
International Outcry
Human rights organisations have condemned Russia’s tactics, calling them a violation of international law. "Forcing citizens abroad to fight is coercion on a global scale," said a spokesperson for Amnesty International.
Meanwhile, the US State Department has yet to issue a formal response, leaving many Russian expats in limbo.
As tensions escalate, this father’s story highlights the far-reaching grip of Putin’s regime—and the desperate measures some will take to escape it.
