I was born in a city called Khabarovsk (Picture: Maksim Lukianenko)
‘Stop the war!’ I shouted, as I looked around Parliament Square in London and saw countless other Russians gathered.
It was May last year – just two months after the Russia-Ukraine war started – and I was protesting the dreadful situation where my country was engaging in terrible acts in Ukraine.
During that time, a multitude of emotions – anger, shame, and outrage – accumulated within me. We were all there to try to halt the war and cease the killing of innocent civilians.
This outspokenness against my home country is part of the reason why I can’t go back – in fact, this is how I ended up applying for asylum in the UK.
I was born in a city called Khabarovsk, which is located close to the Chinese border in Russia’s far east.
My father, a staunch patriot, has always been openly critical of Putin’s regime. As a family, we paid an enormous price for his activism, enduring numerous apartment raids and witnessing his imprisonment on multiple occasions.
I made a swift decision to leave for Moscow and then onto London (Picture: Maksim Lukianenko)
As I grew older and witnessed the consequences of political activism in Russia, I made a conscious decision not to follow in my father’s footsteps. However, everything changed when the war began.
I lived in the Russian city of Taganrog, which is approximately 70km away from the Ukraine border.
On 19 February, I witnessed the implementation of a regional state of emergency, accompanied by escalating tensions and a heightened military presence.
Immediately, I thought about the risk of being called upon to serve in the war – considering the proximity of the frontlines.
Fearing for my life, I made a swift decision to leave for Moscow and then onto London. Fortunately, I had obtained a six-month UK visa a week prior after a two-week application process.
The constant fear of being imprisoned within the country – combined with a limited number of safe destinations to escape to – made me cautious. It justified my strong desire to acquire a valid visa for a country that upholds democratic values.
On 24 February, at Sheremetyevo airport, my world crumbled before my eyes as the war unfolded. At that grievous moment, I boarded the last direct flight from Moscow to London operated by Russian airlines as subsequent flights were cancelled.
I made the decision to stay and build a new life in the UK (Picture: Maksim Lukianenko)
Once onboard, a profound sense of relief washed over me – knowing that I was finally on my way to safety. As the plane took off, leaving behind the turmoil and uncertainty of my homeland, a mixture of emotions overwhelmed me – gratitude for the opportunity to escape, sadness for the loved ones I left behind, and hope for a brighter future.
After landing, it took me quite some time to fully grasp the reality of my new surroundings — a reality where I no longer lived in fear of persecution for my anti-war beliefs. I know that I can freely express myself and be heard without repercussions.
I also took considerable time to weigh my options. Returning to Russia was not a viable choice because I knew I’d likely be summoned to serve in a war I fundamentally disagree with, so I made the decision to stay and build a new life in the UK.
In July 2022, I applied for asylum, recognising the very real risk of persecution should I return home.
The asylum process has been relatively smooth, albeit nerve-wracking. Initially, I was unsure where to seek help or advice regarding legal matters or even basic necessities, such as opening a bank account and accessing healthcare.
However, the Home Office granted me permission to work two weeks after submitting my application, which allowed me to be independent without relying on free accommodation or a small government allowance.
I have taken part in numerous rallies held at Parliament Square and in front of the Russian Embassy (Picture: Maksim Lukianenko)
At the same time, I have been actively volunteering for the Russian Democratic Society (RDS), which is an organisation led by individuals who share my opposition to the war.
In April last year, I came across a rally against the war organised by RDS, and without hesitation, I applied to be a steward to assist with organisational matters.
Since then, I have taken part in numerous rallies held at Parliament Square and in front of the Russian Embassy. During these rallies, I experienced a profound sense of connection to the global movement striving for a peaceful resolution and supporting Ukraine.
Being part of this movement has reinforced my belief in the power of collective action to bring about positive change. But I have no doubt that my involvement with the anti-war movement in the UK has made returning home unsafe for me.
In September, I enrolled in college for a software development course and successfully completed it this year. Now I am currently seeking employment as a software developer.
Pursuing a career in IT is my ultimate dream, and I am determined to make it a reality.
As anticipated, in October last year, I received a summons from the Russian military office to be sent to Ukraine. But that is not something I can do in good conscience.
So while I study and work part-time as a waiter, I patiently await a response on my asylum application from the Home Office. I understand that they are making efforts to address the backlog of tens of thousands of applications this year, but many people – including myself – are still awaiting decisions on our fates.
Nonetheless, I am grateful for everything that the UK has provided me.
Many people – including Russians like me – hold the hope that the conflict will be resolved swiftly. I believe that my home country will eventually recognise Ukraine’s sovereignty, withdraw its military forces, and accept the original borders.
On a personal note, I fervently hope that the UK will make a just decision regarding my status, granting me the opportunity to stay. In my homeland, human rights have been consistently abused, rendering it impossible to lead a dignified life with fundamental rights intact.
The prospect of finding a new home in the UK – where these rights are upheld – gives me hope for a brighter future.
In sharing my experiences, I hope to raise awareness about the plight of asylum seekers and inspire others to recognise the strength that lies within those who have been forced to flee their homes.
Together, we can foster compassion, understanding, and a more inclusive world that offers solace and opportunity to those in need.
Immigration Nation
Immigration Nation is a series that aims to destigmatise the word ‘immigrant’ and explore the powerful first-person stories of people who’ve arrived in the UK – and called it home. If you have a story you’d like to share, email james.besanvalle@metro.co.uk
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I have no doubt that my involvement with the anti-war movement in the UK has made returning home unsafe for me.