Young men describe why they've fled Russia after Putin's military mobilisation

Some Russian men crossed into Finland across its southeastern border with Russia on Friday (September 23) after President Vladimir Putin ordered a partial mobilisation.
"It is just crazy. I am just for freedom, Russia (free) from Putin, democracy in Russia," said 27-year-old Nikita, a sound engineer, breaking into tears. He declined to give his last name.
"When Putin has his speech I just pack my bag and directly go to Finland," said 26-year-old Sergey, who is travelling to Turkey.
Reuters spoke to a dozen young men at the Vaalimaa border crossing in southeastern Finland, their numbers growing in the days since Putin announced the call-up of 300,000 military reservists.
Traffic into Finland over its border with Russia was heavy on Friday.
But the Finnish government, wary of becoming a major transit nation, plans to stop all Russians from entering on tourist visas within the coming days, Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto told a news conference in New York.
Exceptions may still apply on humanitarian grounds, but avoiding the military conscription was unlikely to constitute grounds for asylum, he said.
The Finnish border guard said the number of Russians who had entered the previous day was more than double the amount who arrived the week before.
About 7,000 people entered from Russia on Thursday, some 6,000 of them Russian, according to the border guards.
Finnish land border crossings have remained among the few entry points into Europe for Russians after a string of countries shut both physical frontiers and their air space to Russian planes in response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
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#Ukraine #Russia #ukrainenews

[@MarkBenedettiMoss]

Don't ever fight a war for someone you don't like against someone you don't hate. Well done to all these men

[@silvertigra4117]

Bro they only require to train for 2 weeks and most of them didn't have military or arms training let alone survival when winter is close by like they are actually sending them to die for some land that will probably keep on fire for years due to gunfire

[@jetsetter8541]

Idiot, you fight. for the government order like Germans did.

[@MarkBenedettiMoss]

@@silvertigra4117 It's tragic and totally unnecessary

[@ArtyGoat]

I like the simplicity and truth of your message

[@TheChrisJL]

On point!

[@Beta_007]

That first man is legitimately heart broken over what's happening in his country. He's devistated that some people hate the Russian people now and only wants to get away from this pointless war.

[@edwardvalivonis23]

He wasn't crying when Russian troops murdered children in Ukraine

[@wilko9925]

@@edwardvalivonis23 tf do you know, people been protesting from the beginning dumby

[@JohnDoe-pm8cz]

@@edwardvalivonis23 was you around him back then? this experts from comments who know everything about everyone.

[@amy6368]

@@edwardvalivonis23 you assume that from 30 seconds of video?

[@danielcarlsen8975]

@@edwardvalivonis23 ppl like u ...

[@nhala04]

They are not fleeing or deserting. They are surviving! May God Bless!

[@davrastdavrast9308]

What a shame. I never thought we'd see this in Europe again. Does no one learn from past mistakes. I wish these brave young lads a safe and happy future. God bless.

[@philbaier6975]

I think you might be right about not learning from past mistakes...and I include my own country...we as humans, particularly in the large groups, the macro-perspective, seem to repeat. A shame really!! I DON'T want to hear never again, b/c I think it is insulting ...my opinion is if WE, collectively, believed that phrase, then WE would have taken different and/or more action to prevent this OR stop it earlier from happening. Don't get me wrong the ultimate culprit is Putin and his kleptocrats and et al. Merely my opinion. Thanks for your thoughts and wishes! Take care.

[@redbitch3362]

"Europeans"

[@lolsaXx]

WW1 was supposed to be the war to end all wars... then WW2 happend so soon after.

[@MybeautifulandamazingPrincess]

You never thought you'd see that again? How? The regime the started it all, the communists, were helped by the allies to win the war and spread their red cancer across the world. Isn't it obvious that this would happen eventually? Russians haven't been free for a century, since the red pigs usurped the power in Russia and established their war criminal regime with an illegitimate coup d'etat

[@xaiano794]

Not dying is a powerful motivator

[@TMU07]

People might think about death a lot because of our sophisticated brains. Our minds "make us painfully aware of inevitable mortality, and this awareness clashes with our biologically wired desire for life. This morbid pondering causes anxiety for some, while for others it can be a source of "immense clarity and wisdom.

[@just1it1moko]

and its a win-win every russian thats not in Russia cannot contribute to its economy.

[@Banininator]

@@TMU07 yeah we all know that, we are talking about avoiding a WAR tho lmao

[@larsc.krogens3937]

@Dr. Obligated Freedom would be to fight Putin in Ruzzia.

[@sapientemsapientem80]

@@TMU07 people with a low IQ fights for there motherland/fatherland there is nothing more stupid in this world than that and following leaders

[@SubzeroCage]

The first guy really tugged at my heart strings. We don't hate you bud. We know its not you're fault.

[@andyappleton3353]

Down with Putin. FREE RUSSIA!!!

[@Northman-from-the-North]

In some way it is his own fault, he and everyone else in russia that let this happen. If everyone in russia had stood up agsinst Putin and his "special military operation" from the beginning, he had been gone by now. You cannot arrest millions of people..

[@guts-141]

Remove Putin

[@vlad9049]

Silence of the population through the years of putin regime could be considered their fault. If you are not interested in politics of your country you always end up in his shoes.

[@Aphex51]

I'm so glad I found this comment. A small yet fine example of humanity.

[@anteb.k.8396]

Man I'm so sad for that 27 year old, don't worry mate, your heart of gold matters more than what Putin will ever do in his life

[@pidosr]

I am just a Russian kid and honestly I'm really afraid of what is happening now. All my male friends/uncles and my dad are in danger of taking part in the war. I don't want this. I want peace.

[@trungduong4040]

I support peace in Russia. Wishing for the best.

[@brittscott4673]

Hopefully The war in Ukraine will lead to Putin's removal from power and bring about peace and positive change in Russia.

[@cliveramsbotty6077]

sometimes you have to fight to have peace

[@brittscott4673]

@@cliveramsbotty6077 It's always governments and the people. It's always governments that want to start all these wars. The people just want what is best for their family and for themselves and want to live in peace.

[@garyfryer5334]

Thats interesting??? Your Male friends/uncles and dad are in danger of taking part!! Funny how you dont mention any male friends who are taking part, as we have been led to believe that virtually all the men were already taking part!!

[@kr1dfy453]

I am a Russian American. Thank God my family brought me to the US as a child. Can’t imagine what’s going through the minds of all these guys around my age.

[@jmurrayathletics]

And america is glad to have you and your family!

[@IgorFranknstn27]

Don't get too confident, the US can draft you to anytime they want

[@AHTOIIIKA]

Nothing is happening to guys of your age. Mobilisation only for reservations with war experience

[@renanboni7636]

@@AHTOIIIKA so why are those people fleeding?

[@mariogmajner6549]

@@jmurrayathletics America are the cause 9f the war in Ukraine.

[@misterae6430]

That poor first guy. Feel really bad for him he was on the brink of crying.

[@bighands69]

I think he knows that the Russian dream of normalcy is gone. The idea of Russia becoming like a western democracy has melted away. Russia is now destined to a series of cultural events to include the war, economic collapse, demographic collapse and then finally cultural collapse. One third of those included in the Russian population are not ethically Russian and have been in a sort of uneasy relationship for the last few decades.

[@jackdunn3235]

Yup. Pootin ruining more lives.

[@joy1ess]

Turkey also has mandatory military service for all male citizens .. so if he's turkish, then he might still end up in the army again

[@losswert]

Its really really sad, this shows that a lot of people in russia are just normal people and want peace. But I cant imagine the emotional pain of these people, they are peacefully and the whole world kinda hates russia for putins actions, and they have to suffer for it. Makes me so sad...

[@maeva7949]

Saw an angry tweet today by a Russian who was turned back from Georgian border because he had forgotten to scrape the z-sign off the car. He now threatens that Georgia will be the next target of "denazification" by Russia.

[@irene8564]

27 years old!! Young man, I am so sorry, that you have to go through something, that should not be necessary!! I have two sons and I cannot imagine, what you and your family must go through. It breaks my heart, listening to you.

[@linaurazmetova4786]

Ребята, держитесь! Can't watch this without tears in my eyes. Good luck, young men! I hope you will meet kind-hearted people on this journey.

[@cheburatour]

А кто тут мущины? Эти что-ли?

[@sumdude4281]

The first guy seemed like a really nice kid. Hope he finds peace and bliss wherever he goes. Hope they all do. Slava Ukraine.

[@Friendsshare]

Dude looks like a hippie I knew in highschool lol

[@manishaun7162]

Lol hippie, doesn't want to fight, to busy getting stoned, taking trips, love and peace lol

[@gazpachopolice7211]

@@manishaun7162 indeed what a terrible human . Doesn't want to kill other humans!

[@visnjalivancic3953]

Were you saying slava Iraq when Amerika attacked them

[@terrythomas8486]

@@gazpachopolice7211 Yeah really, them damn hippies would have us making love instead of war, then what kind of world would we have?

[@richhenry8004]

I have a son the same age as the first guy there. To him, we don't hate you and, instead, im proud of you for making what i think is the right decision in a tough situation.

[@MegaFregel]

There are lots and lots of people who hate Russians for given reasons.

[@duby9811]

We do hate him , it wasn’t a tough situation, he left asap and got interviewed lol

[@ricardas.7736]

@@duby9811 shut up and leave him alone :)

[@duby9811]

@@ricardas.7736 Nah we won’t, they made their faces public haja

[@noname-sz4br]

he is a little girl, not a man. tough situation lol

[@anjou6497]

I feel so desperately for these young men. This first young man, oh my, i want to take him in my motherly arms and say,..you're right. 🤔😓💞

[@mango4064]

Imagine how the Ukrainian civilians felt when they had to leave while rockets and artillery shells were falling from the sky hitting their homes. For many, they evacuated with just clothes on their back.

[@1943klt]

Rather like those fleeing Ukrainian shelling in the Donetsk People's Republic and the Luhansk People's Republic.

[@maeva7949]

@@1943klt There was no shelling before russians invaded Ukraine 2014.

[@personaldove]

OMG! Does every single Russian have to answer for Putin now? Shame on you.

[@maeva7949]

@@personaldove Only russians themselves can change the policy of their country. If every single russian thinks that it does not concern him that their countrymen are bombing, killing and raping Ukrainians then they just do not care and approve it and nothing is going to change. I have high respect for those who stand up, like brave Iranian women. And of course russians who fight against putin and acknowledge their responsibility to make a change.

[@maeva7949]

@@personaldove I remember the first mass protests in occupied Estonia in 1988 (there were smaller ones in 1987). The moment when the mass becomes big enough, fears dissipate and the protest wave keeps growing. russians should stay, and not flee, in order to create pressure on the dictator. Unfortunately lots of them only care about themselves.

[@normanmart7933]

Putin certainly got his mobilisation , not quite as he imagined.

[@deejay6869]

I like your take on it. You're right about that.

[@Gaelmalkavian]

yeah! russian people get the messege XD

[@pouncepounce7417]

it is a very special mobilisation.

[@GnosticAtheist]

Don't be so sure. He may consider (actual) morality a problem trait for his planned colony empire so forcing them out means less people to "deal" with later.

[@rammingspeed5217]

Im ex UK forces.. Can I also avoid mobilisation if the UK calls up its reservists?

[@Game_and_Cinema_Review]

I'm a Belarussian guy. I spend time with my family and friends as much as possible, because when Lukashenko well start the mobilization too, I know I need to evacuate.

[@kevinp8108]

Leave immediately before they close your border!

[@mr.t993]

It might very well be too late by then.

[@coold8d]

Bela-Russian 🎉 Slava

[@PeterLawton]

Now is the time to overthrow Lukashenko, Putin's puppet. What's Putin going to do, invade Belarus? Putin has more than enough on his mind right now. Cut ties, restore democracy, do it now.

[@HERETOHELPPEOPLE729]

yeah support until they try to make you fight bellarussian typical coward. don't forget to remove the Z signs from úr car. 🤦🏽‍♂️

[@Lilstarshine]

Sending so much love to these men! Women fleeing from Ukraine and men from Russia. What the hell is this world. No one apart from some psychos on the top wants this madness! Extra big hug to the man with tears who are 27! Be so proud of yourself and your feelings! You’re so right to feel this way!

[@kaydub4788]

All war is evil. I wish these men safe travels and peace in the time ahead. Godspeed.

[@lopezmt5]

They don’t want to die for an old man’s pride.

[@DM06847]

I don't think it's his Pride. As far I am concerned it's his Purse.

[@lopezmt5]

@@DM06847 - I’m not so certain of the distinction you are trying to make. The wealth of the Donbass region won’t be going into the “personal purse” of Putin. I’m not certain if the “wealth” gained from holding onto the region, well offset the costs in men and material and lost equipment; but even if it does that “wealth” will go into the coffers of Russia, not Putin’s personal bank account. So even if his “motive” is to make Russia “wealthy”, it’s still his pride to be able to accomplish and say it was because of his leadership. Hence, why I said, “Old man’s pride”…

[@roscoemiller9675]

Your right that's all it is.

[@makoygaara]

This!

[@javiermartinezjr8849]

He's right the feeling of your culture and nationality start being hated it must feel horrible all because of one man's madness

[@svetlanakokoreva9374]

it does. unfortunately judging the whole situation coming from the top comes with hating ordinary people, with a good contribution from western media

[@Marconi121]

Two actually, if you think zelensky is a blameless victim then you're missing a large portion of the picture.

[@svenwiberg2563]

@@Marconi121 what did he do wrong in this situation?

[@paigekyllonen6613]

I don’t hate them. It’s Democrats that want the people to hate them. To give us a reason to go to war for NATO and the off shore bank accounts. If Ukraine falls so will every corrupt politicians bank accounts.

[@MiguelHernandez-mb1eu]

@@Marconi121 tf you on about?

[@adam.maqavoy]

Its so crazy... I was going to study Pyccki in *St Petersburg* and I have a Friend. Since a few years back (before Covid-19) and.. wanted to meet her and study there and get to know her better in person. We've chatted & had online meet up. But not meet up yet. Than this war in Happened. Just a few months before I was going to apply abroad.. I felt so bad. We still stay in contact. God do worry for her & her Family. Yes, I definitely wish too meet her to, but one thing at a time.

[@cassandramiguel1163]

I'm also another 27 year old and I can't imagine feeling like this young man. He is obviously devastated. You are welcomed in Mexico! There's a lot of Russians and Ukrainians living there now.

[@SaltyDawg976]

The first guy broke my heart. I am so devastated for the Russian and Ukrainian people. This is crazy.

[@artursalksnis140]

They ran only when putin started mobilizaton. War started more than 6months ago...

[@percyfaith11]

Why because he teared up?

[@TheOfficerMahoney]

Why? The Russian people put Putin in power, they keep him in power. This "poor" man did most likely nothing to stand up against Putler, what he did was to run away when he himself was at risk. What a brave man, eh

[@curiousnomadic]

@@percyfaith11 Because Putin is a dictator and rightists in the west have fantasies about creating one of their own countries.

[@LuisCruz-ne5wo]

In my country this person would be a traitor and the heros would be those soldiers who went to Iraq to cause so much misery on the people.

[@sdean4816]

I feel sorry for the first guy. You can see how upset he is about the entire situation.

[@tijn3331]

He probably had a lot of backlash back home too before his flight. :(

[@stinkypete891]

Woketard.

[@Yesindeed126]

Ye 100%.. poor dude was just born in the wrong place.

[@youngnutsack17]

This is why Americas 2nd amendment is so important, since we have the right to guns the government couldn’t try to oppress us like Russia because every civilian is armed to the teeth and still they’re trying to disarm us but we won’t let it happen.

[@stinkypete891]

@@earforenglish5867

[@poeethics9331]

People who hate someone just because of the country they are from are ignorant. You are more than the flag you were born under. Many blessings to these young men.

[@peterprentice9179]

young men don't want to be cannon fodder

[@Anatoliybumburyak]

I’m Ukrainian moved to the US in 96 these guys are my peers this is so heartbreaking. I am praying for sanity.

[@nelo4047]

О, малорос сраний всплив

[@manuelmoraleda9684]

It's my impression that Putin wants to resurrect the former USSR in one form or another. How can he do that by bombing and killing the Ukrainians ?

[@davidchang8428]

Russians and Ukrainians are genetically identical people. That's what is so crazy about it all. Like North Korea vs. South Korea. Or East Germany vs. West Germany.

[@theotmt7906]

@@davidchang8428 nope, they are not identical, Ukrainians have their own culture and identity, however, they have simmilar roots and blood with Russians, as both are slavic peoples, you can call both Ukranian and Russian people brothers, but they are not the same peoples

[@bradmehler7965]

Sad

[@Psyriusmusic]

Some intelligent, sane and thinking people. Nice to see. I would also flee if I had the chance. I don't wanna kill or be killed. War is primitive and is not a part of the future for humanity.

[@wombatwilly1002]

It is as long as Russia,China,North Korea and Iran exist

[@2CSST2]

@@wombatwilly1002 No let's no go that far they don't need to be destroyed, but they probably will need to go through some sort of brutal civil war at some point so they can reform (as Iran is going through one right now)

[@TheMrExemplar]

War is the backbone of nature of human being

[@TheMrExemplar]

@@wombatwilly1002 such an arrogant statement

[@positivelastaction3957]

Western media propaganda to support hatred for Russia.

[@beltaxxe]

Much love from Australia

[@mikeharland3358]

Did you know in Norway the government owns the gas industry? And the profits go to the nations pension fund. Why can’t the uk do that?

[@zman-ru3yf]

Pretty sad. People just want to live In peace and one man can change all that

[@lightoftheworld417]

Yet people in Donetsk People's Republic and the Luhansk People's Republic will soon know peace because of that same man. One sided?

[@tangelmagic6302]

It's fault of NATO, not of one man.

[@CustCareRep]

A rich, sick, evil, bloodthirsty, power-crazed monster of a "man"? He is the one who should be fleeing. And the Russian Patriarch, with a gold cross on his head, supports this monster?

[@trevorellis4770]

Obviously When Putin said he was going to mobilise 300000 men he meant out of the country not into the army😂

[@88corinutza]

Secret Special Vacation

[@LD-pt5ur]

Hoo hoo hooo sooo funny ho ho ho

[@johnnyapplesmith]

Nothing he says matters or has any substance. Every single 18+ year old male in russia is scared. Putin says 22+ with military experience, but really they take anyone 17+ and who they deem "low quality citizen", prisoners and especially non white poor russians from regions in Siberia, Kazakhstan, Dagestan ect... The physically capable patriotic russian males have a 0% chance of ever seeing battle, Putin wants them alive.

[@edwardvalivonis23]

Bloodimir: Sirgay, why these people fleeing Russia? Sirgay: Mr President, I thought you wanted them to leave?....for Ukraine Bloodimir: but Ukraine is on other side Sirgay: I'm sorry, I think Wagner gave them wrong coordinates

[@edwardvalivonis23]

@@88corinutza special from Russia mobilisation operation

[@zzzpip]

We don't hate you young man stay strong, peace and respect from the UK

[@Smalls989]

first guy is kinda heart breaking

[@og_sane]

As a Finn I feel sad for them. But also, people in Russia should stand against Putin in big masses. So big that the police couldnt just arrest or beat them all. It can be done, and of course requires lots of courage and will. Still too many people in my neighbor country believe in lies..

[@user-pp6wk1gp6o]

Listen Suomi, and what did we prevent you from? Since the Second World War, we seem to have lived together and even traded between us! You even bought tanks and missiles from us for your protection! And we also went to you for all sorts of souvenirs, and you came to us for vodka!

[@taburetmacho4183]

it is impossible to organize such a mass of people

[@zenabelen7454]

@@taburetmacho4183 Ukrain did it.

[@vladimirratputin]

Totally agree. Collective guilt principles that were given to Germany and its citizens after WW2 apply all the same to Russians. You can't just keep your head in the sand waiting for the shooting to stop and say later "I opposed it". Or you emigrate.

[@thechief762]

True, Solzhenitsyn said exactly that. Maybe that is why they hated him so much.

[@josephschmidt4157]

No one hates you my friend just your leadership. Stay positive and stay safe, we pray for you. Many blessings from the United States 🇺🇸.

[@desoliver9712]

It's really great to see so many messages like this. I think it's really important to say and to communicate to the Russian people.

[@NoMan769]

Where next destination for US Taiwan?

[@ianstewartorr8455]

And from Scotland 🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@TheLiquidPeace]

Yeah, the USA has never done anything like this, whoops Vietnam, Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria & that is a partial list. 400, 000 civilians killed in Iraq by the self-proclaimed "War President" & Not 1 WMD found!

[@Alif-EDM]

Common people will suffer

[@lianison8983]

This is the first time I watched a Russian guy cry, he's definitely distraught about the situation in Russia right now! I wish all those men or all the people who's fleeing Russia right now will find a place for them to stay while navigating this new chapter in their life time!

[@Immashift]

It's not the people. The country and culture are awesome. The government blows.

[@ethanrichardson126]

My total respect to these Russian young men who rejected to serve the dictator of Moscow, to me they are true Russian patriots

[@JimSendre]

idk its just self preservation what is there to respect? It would be heroic to stay and fight the regime. Not saying I blame them I get its big undertaking and scary, but whats there to respect exactly? Compare that with Ukrainians who some of them went back to fight for their country and risk their lives.

[@chrisdelaplante5515]

No, cowards, russian ethnic people are dying coz Kiev his bombarding them since 2014.

[@cspace1234nz]

Nonsense, ......these people fleeing Russia are gutless. I understand them not wanting to go to war but if nothing else they need to stay and fight their own government in some way. The collective psyche of the Russian people is responsible for the leader and the government they have therefore they must take responsibility, not run away

[@R0NIN_1987]

All I see is a bunch of draft dodging cowards.

[@danny1229c]

Would you respect your own countrymen if they fled or refused to fight Russia or help Ukraine ? Just curious because people like to say things that sound good until the shoe is on the other foot.

[@H-TownGamer]

you made the right decision. don’t feel bad, my heart goes out to these young guys

[@solidus_reaver4381]

You wouldn't say that to British people who would refuse to fight you'd be calling us cowards while your living comfortable and safe sponging off of rich daddy!.

[@rolandomeza4471]

How can someone refuse to fight for his mother land?..

[@Denis-Maldonado]

@@rolandomeza4471 Because they have a brain? And now this is a war of agression and imperialism by the Russian dictator?

[@mike_oe]

No they didn't. They should have stayed and cleaned up Russia from within. They are first class cowards and indirect enablers of the war.

[@zeffe0528]

They did the wrong thing. They should join FREE RUSSIA and do what they can to get rid of putin instead of being cowardly rats! No sympathy for these!

[@freqeist]

respect from England.

[@djsanti4446]

No explanation needed really

[@planouquier]

I'm so sorry for all these young men having to leave their country. A very sad period of time.

[@mavi79]

Totally agree,this is insane

[@eliakimjosephsophia4542]

They don't have to flee, they can stand and defend Russia, their families and friends.

[@tray5918]

Nah they are cowards nothing more. If this was on CNN saying how they're American and they don't want to fight in a war that America started you all would bash them...

[@muzaaaaak]

@@eliakimjosephsophia4542 defend the offensive country? Are you funkin insane here? Russia invaded Ukraine. Did you forget that part?

[@puraLusa]

@@eliakimjosephsophia4542 leaving is a form of active protest. Protestors are being drafted so by staying they would change nothing and actually would help the regime.

[@voicelesspilot3463]

Love from 🇺🇸 stay 💪 we all want peace and we don't hate you!

[@godsu]

@F🇺🇦K ZELENSKY Go become cannon fodder for your god Pootin 🤡

[@hoangnguyen6008]

You better worry about your dementia president. Your country is a laughing stock for the rest of the world

[@Maennlichkeitsbeauftragter]

@F🇺🇦K ZELENSKY ? Embarrassing…

[@sumdude4281]

@F🇺🇦K ZELENSKY Yes, we want peace there too. We got rid of Bush and Cheney. You're still stuck with Poohtin 20+ years later. What's your excuse?

[@Nabium]

@@sumdude4281 Good point actually.

[@AlexanderJohnLee]

Crossed that border checkpoint in early May. First thing you notice when you get to Finland is that they don't heat their buildings. On the Russian border, the building was warm, I had to even take my jacket off. Hitchhiked with a Finnish/Russian dual citizen who would buy gas in bulk in Vyborg and it would last him a few weeks in Finland.... All that is certain is that it's going to be a very cold winter for Europe.

[@wilhelmh9495]

Dumbest thing I’ve ever heard. There’s no lack of heating in Scandinavia. That’s just stupid Russian propaganda.

[@mikepatterson1510]

I don’t hate you friend!!! We hate what your country is doing, and we applaud you for standing up for yourself. Stay strong!

[@frankmustermann7272]

The worst are the ones who quickly scratched the Z off their car before running away. It makes me sick to see people like that.

[@annagalka6099]

Some actually forgot…

[@jesseroberts1041]

Why? Genuinely curious, I think it’s better less people fight for a c**t like Putin. Even though it would be better if they joined just to turn on their government.

[@edwardvalivonis23]

They will die soon

[@botulf4908]

Or the ones who hated unvaccinated folk?

[@kataypunk]

Yeah and most people don't realise that it's actually 99% of Z fascism supporters in russia.

[@Agnieszka122]

The young man in the beginning just touch me so much . I am from Poland and I don't hate you , it's the media that creates it . We are just the human beings and we all want to enjoy and cherish our life . Please stay safe and look courageously to the future !

[@sophiemoroz5744]

Hi from Voronezh, Russia I know, what you’re talking about (thank you so much for it!), cuz I know lots of people from EU, but the media’s reality is really awful, I realised it when my boyfriend’s friend asked me about HOW bad (I mean, he didn't asked about IF) it is if you’re Russian in European/post-soviet pro-European countries (due to mobilisation)

[@Agnieszka122]

@@sophiemoroz5744 We , ordinary people , need to protect each other . Lots of hugs ❤

[@Pippie5555]

@@sophiemoroz5744 Remember that the Russian soldiers in Ukraine can surrender by calling 2402. (This was the date that Russia invaded Ukraine.)

[@AA-vr8ez]

Stop blaming media. Media is a reflection of the people, if they put out hate, it’s because hate sells to the haters.

[@user-ry9ed5io4k]

You're watching interviews of cowardly fugitives

[@livesmart9481]

how do they get drafted?

[@JosannaMonik]

We don't hate you; we feel so sad for you. Your president is a madman.

[@zendakk]

I visited Russia in the late 90s from Germany, a cultural exchange project. Stayed with a wonderful family I'm still in contact with and consider my friends. Met a lot of great people and it saddens me how so much potential is wasted there because of this stupid gang of kleptocrats. The country is massive, rich in resources, if things were more sane, everyone would benefit. And now we see brain drain because people are leaving (not only because if this mobilization). They will use their skills elsewhere instead of at home. I can't even talk to my friends properly there, don't want to risk them getting in trouble because I know their views are not exactly Kremlin-friendly. Hope somewhere along the way the people manage to free themselves from this dictatorship. Unfortunately, a lot of old timers and nationalists support the crook in power and this insane invasion of their neighbours.

[@philbaier6975]

Well said, written. I used to live in West Berlin. Alles Gute!! Tschuess.

[@fredlandry6170]

It’s very sad to see so many Russian Soldiers that have died in Putin’s needless war. These men in Russia are fleeing for their lives I’m sure is very hard for them to leave their home and families.

[@smolli71]

I am happy for every soul that saves his life, don´t let yourself get butchered!

[@grafito4438]

Imagine waiting for the announcement, with your bags ready to leave.

[@Aidan303]

"War will cease when we refuse to fight"

[@kimberlyk3928]

These poor young men are so scared. I really feel for them!

[@petersuchansky6703]

wrong word "scared". correct word is - sefish. Not protesting against war just not willing to participate

[@cfl_finn4831]

Its good that they are scared! Thats what they deserve

[@kimberlyk3928]

@@cfl_finn4831 why do you say that? These guys don't agree with Putin!

[@aleksandrb4154]

@@petersuchansky6703 I can see you are a brave man . Not everyone is happy to sacrifice their life protesting and be taken to prison and drafted to war from prison. Super easy to talk “smart”, but you don’t have idea how bloody scary and dangerous is to fight with KGB regime

[@Drogers8675]

@@petersuchansky6703 only the bravest men like you talk tough on KZbin

[@lukethomas6100]

Respect to these people…. Seriously takes courage and these people are taking the first steps to peace for everyone.

[@Rius9106]

No, fleeing does not take any courage. Standing up against the goverment would. These guys were ok with the war as long as it didnt affect them. They should not be allowed to flee to countries russia actively states they hate. They have to suffer consequences of their actions or make a change.

[@kodokoa]

respect?

[@thunderbug8640]

@@Rius9106 Give it a rest ffs in the same situation you would be doing the same thing before you could even say "here’s your AK comrade", you’re only deluding yourself if you think otherwise.

[@Rius9106]

@@thunderbug8640 I know my country wont invade others. And if we are invaded, I will defend our home and people. So im not going to ever be in his position. Why? Because here we don't support the idea of authoritarian goverment playing around with expense of others. Russians wanted this and now they get their chance to shine for putin in ukraine.

[@HERETOHELPPEOPLE729]

​@@Rius9106 I saw a hilarious video of dozens of cowards removing Z stickers from their cars as they flee towards Finland as fast as possible 🤣🤣

[@alabinsaintdenis]

To the first young emotional man. I can't speak for all Americans because I don't know how everyone thinks, but me personally I love Russians as people!!! It is only the Kremlin I have a problem with. I love you brother❤️!!!!

[@maeva7949]

Yeah, sure, it is putin alone committing mass murders and raping children in Ukraine.

[@andreafry3428]

What a situation to find yourself in . So many young soldiers killed already that thought they were on a training exercise not actually going to war .Now these ones are fleeing but what about the ones who can't do that ? It is a horrendous situation 😔

[@shaye2336]

Praying for all the young man and woman in Russia who loves democracy 🙏🙏

[@TheOfficerMahoney]

Don't feel bad for Russia or Russians. They put Putin in power, they keep him there. The vast majority either directly or silently accepts what Putin is doing, being silent is acceptance as well. So what sort of bravery is it to run away when you are at risk and otherwise to stay silent. Think about it. We now have a bulk of Ukrainian, mostly women and children in Finland and now we are getting Russian men as well. Oh the irony. Democracy will never happen in Russia. When Putin is out, there will be another dictator in place and brutality continues

[@Olga-1409-ru]

Спасибо огромное. Ваши молитвы нам не помешают в этом путинском аду.

[@anthonylovato5614]

I know the feeling! I turned 19 in 1968 during the Vietnam War.....

[@alexv850]

Slava Ukraine from Hungary. Glory to the heroes of Ukraine.

[@tedporciuncula3385]

I really feel bad for these young man...all of these heartaches for 1 person's fragile ego...tragic

[@royfearn4345]

That first young man is feeling so alone right now but he will find the love and companionship he craves. He has already taken the hardest step.

[@sharonsmith84]

My heart goes out to these young men and their families, also the ones who have already been killed or injured xx

[@21boxhead]

LIKE THE RUSSIAN CIVILIANS KILLED IN DONBAS FOR THE PAST 8 YEARS

[@zeffe0528]

They don't deserve your sympathy. The Russians that fights for Ukraine are the ones you should care for. They are the Heroes!

[@MustacheCashStash125]

@@zeffe0528 They do deserve sympathy. They’re being forced to fight against their will

[@mightymightyenapack2530]

I feel these men my dad ran from the draft for Vietnam and ran to Canada I feel bad that young men like these have to leave because they do not want to die in a war there government made

[@heather333]

These are wise young men. They got out quickly while the going was good.

[@htownjesse]

We don't hate y'all. So sorry you're going through this. Best of luck to all of you.

[@Dan-oo1rj]

he can get better life: he can move to the Ukraine and wait for being killed by the aggressor and his sister/mother being raped first. Tell him to make the switch and get better life in Ukraine thanks to his country!

[@zeta1960]

Same words, hopefully people wont hate innocent civilians, all of this war is led by Putin, not civilians,

[@k.bayraktar4488]

I really feel bad for Russia. I live in Istanbul’s residential area and I started to come across Russians oftenly. They’re well educated, open minded young professionals who have endless things to offer. It’s painful to see they, known as a proud nation, had to give up on their country and Russia lost such people. Of course not comparable with what Ukraine is losing. I hope this won’t turn into a nuclear disaster.

[@mydogeatspuke]

Well educated but refuse to learn English? Seems legit.

[@misterae6430]

@@mydogeatspuke shut up, thats why Europeans normally know on average 3 languages and Americans only one namely English

[@azeQify]

there will be no nuclear war, dont worry. that will never happen

[@TheRealWheelz]

We are all in for a scary future

[@mydogeatspuke]

@@misterae6430 but not geography evidently since the majority of Russia falls under Asia. And they only speak Russian. I'm not American either 😉

[@josephyodiceyodice5990]

It's Honorable and necessary to defend your country. It's, also, Honorable and necessary to refuse to fight, when your country is doing the wrong thing ! 🤨

[@UberDurable]

Traitors is a better description for these young men!

[@slickdragon2536]

Traitors because they don’t want to die for nothing ? You go in Ukraine and fight for Russia if you’re such a tough guy!

[@maxw2430]

Seeing the first guy like that makes me sad. Hope he’ll do okay.

[@bambinaforever1402]

Do u feel sad for ukrainian children guys like him kill every day?

[@kiidmersa9580]

There is no hate and negativity toward any Russian person for me my family personally. I feel for these young men who only want peace. Much love and many blessings to all of Russia, to all of Ukraine and honestly to all peoples on earth. We are only human. We have but one life and one Earth. Lets not waste our lives with violence pride. God bless us all. From America

[@stevenhull5025]

Maybe YOU want peace. How come you didn't say anything when the United States bombed Syria, Iraq, Libya, Serbia, Afghanistan, Vietnam, Laos, Korea and the heinous of all dropping TWO NUCLEAR bombs on civilian cities in Japan.

[@kiidmersa9580]

@@stevenhull5025 A lot of those events were either before my time (Vietnam or the nuclear bombings in Japan) or during a period in my life where I was too young and immature to understand all the evil that was being done in our world. I make no excuses for my ignorance but a person can only try to better themselves for the good of themselves and all those around them. I still stand by what I said. I pray for peace for all people on Earth.

[@tiffanyshanley1419]

The young men don't necessarily want peace. They just don't want to fight. The majority of Russia was all for the destruction of Ukraine.

[@angelocavaliere4196]

@@stevenhull5025 *ORA* c'è una guerra in corso che nessuno vuole !!!! Cos'è questa retorica ?

[@vp416]

@@stevenhull5025 wow, you know so much about US invasions, but how much do you know about Russians invasions? Do you think Ukraine is the first country? Russia is the legacy of USSR, why you don’t count the murders Russia committed? You are not interested to find a bigger butcher than US? Once again I’ll hear about how US is a bloody murder, I’ll personally shove the face of this person in statistics in which Stalin killed more people than US ever could, and how Putin killed more people than any American president, sit down

[@cmorichie7202]

Fun fact: More people stayed and enrolled as opposed to the few who “fled”

[@happyexpat3744]

I am happy that those who can leave are leaving so they won't be drafter and killed and won't be forced to kill their neighbors The 1st young man looked so afraid..or perhaps it was joy...but hearing him and seeing him left me very tearful, for lack of a better word. I know he won't see this but at least from my point of view, I do not hate the Russian people or, indeed, Russia...just the people right now who are creating problems in every corner of the world. I do hope that they shall be able to return home without judgment or punishment. - Gary, Italy

[@user-ry2vd3hm9g]

Bless his heart, all these young men God. Please put peace upon them, really is heart breaking to see all that is happening in the world. Having grown children myself . I could never imagine what their all going through

[@ner0p]

Heartbreaking? What's heartbreaking is them turning away their backs on the people being massacred south of the border. Talk about absolute narcissists, me, me, me, ME!

[@user-ry9ed5io4k]

You're watching interviews of cowardly fugitives

[@TheRealWheelz]

I don't hate you for being russian brother We know what's happening We are all brothers We shouldn't let politicians force us to kill each other like a sick game

[@incremental_failure]

Politician*. There's only one. No-one else is sending people to death for nothing.

[@TheRealWheelz]

@@incremental_failure just be patient Ukrainian men who want to leave are forced to stay and fight Putin will force Europe into a cold winter and nato will retaliate to survive Our day is coming

[@vaneokmi]

@@incremental_failure So you're saying its necessary to kill young Russian men?

[@giraffeorganic]

@@incremental_failure poutine's accomplices are just as guilty. Obviously they can't speak against poutine but they are still accessories to his war crimes and thus have blood on their hands. The day they had made the decision to work under poutine, was the day they made the decision to become his tools, so ultimately they are just as guilty.

[@robbiegreen7067]

@@vaneokmi pretty sure he talks about Putin being the reason for you men dying in vain

[@Hoosier_Boy]

Holy Cow!

[@michaelgentile4138]

I commend you gentlemen for doing the right thing.!

[@maeva7949]

Saw an angry tweet today by a Russian who was turned back from Georgian border because he had forgotten to scrape the z-sign off the car. He now threatens that Georgia will be the next target of "denazification" by Russia.

[@Jaroslava6971]

That was a provocation from z-supporters (also called putin-bot). It wasn’t a tweet, it was a screenshot from telegram, which was posted by someone on twitter. Telegram chat can be easily created by anyone and it’s hard to track a person by information given in profile (the name was “oleg” if I remember it correctly). It’s a part of information war, to scare more young men AND women (government is sending young medics to death) so they stay here and obey. Young generation was raised in mentality of people after the Cold War, “if you don’t like it here then get out of the country” and abused by “only WE love you, nobody will love and accept you there” (which is a total lie, for example many Soviet parents hate their lgbt kids) The people’s anger and lack of will to do the research is not helping either I hope my English was bearable have a nice day which you and every peaceful person totally deserves

[@brucekastel707]

That's why my Grandparents left Lithuania for the US in 1905 because they didn't want to fight for Russia. Both of my Grandfathers enlisted in the US Army for WWI out of patriotism

[@skaistisdegimas1571]

Your parents are Lithuanians?

[@two02ful]

Sorry, the America today are worst off then those in 3rd world countries. You didn’t travel well enough to know what is happening in the world folk!

[@Awakeningspirit20]

Wow very similar to my family except we don't know why they left or when. I believe they must have had Jewish blood although they were not Jewish, I've seen what Lithuanians look like and my great-great-grandma looked nothing like them.

[@dogbreath6982]

So sad the first guy was heart broken

[@btsninja5861]

🌻🌻🌻🌻 so many new sunflowers

[@Geoskan]

This is not Russia's war; this is Putin's war, and the whole world knows that. I really feel for the Russian people...

[@Firstneem1530]

Ehr, well, not so sure about that. Slava Ukraini 🇳🇱❤️🇺🇦

[@bg1616]

Many Russians are victims but not the ones displaying a big Z and panicking because they were called up to do what the Ukrainians had forced on them in the moment.

[@aleksanderszewczuk3073]

You're wrong. Putin is just a pawn. This country has been hurting other nations for centuries…

[@catalincata9043]

The whole world doesn’t revolve around the west bud. The world is extremely divided right now. Learn to see it from all sides

[@ABanRocks]

It is Russia's war. Putin is doing this to protect Russia from the west.

[@vitosanto3874]

It’s Absolutely Mind Boggling,One would have thought that by the 21st Century after enduring Two World Wars an numerous smaller wars HumanKind would have learned to live and let live. But no the players have changed but the Play is still the same. It’s up to the Younger people to say enough is enough no more war, and not just exchange one Despot for another.

[@joe18425]

History is like a bottle of shampoo 👁👄👁🍿🪓💥

[@esbenm6544]

A totalitarian regime cannot learn from the past, that would mean the end of it. Anywhere where people fear the leaders, and leaders don't fear the people, this can happen.

[@wamnicho]

I laugh at all these so called "peace loving people" where have you been the last 22 years when America was carpet bombing the middle east.

[@Subher0]

Mankind does not learn. Mankind only repeats.

[@barrylambert6324]

The young people of the world are the key to the future of the world. I have faith in them.

[@rc863]

Brave men leaving everything behind in hopes of a better future

[@maeva7949]

If they were brave then they would stay and fight against putin.

[@rc863]

@@maeva7949 because they're is no fight against Putin there.. immediate death sentence

[@silviag3798]

The last guy...he doesn't want to say too much because he's afraid it'll endanger the ones he's left behind.

[@user-qp6vg9ho8u]

Sending love to all Russian citizens who don’t want this war 🇬🇧

[@bambinaforever1402]

They all want war. They just do not want to participate in it. Big difference

[@saintioannsyard7970]

🇬🇧🤝 🤍💙🤍

[@ner0p]

Sending them my middle finger, liberal soy boys.

[@rubyandcherrymyg1381]

sooner or later, the Kiev regime, with the support of the United States, would have started a war with Russia

[@Whysofake]

Feel so sorry for these guys , so sad , been to Russia, the people are great especially the younger ones

[@yungweedaofficialvevo7807]

Also the older ones hate this war as the Ukrainian were their Societ brothers

[@TheOfficerMahoney]

Don't feel bad for Russia or Russians. They put Putin in power, they keep him there. The vast majority either directly or silently accepts what Putin is doing, being silent is acceptance as well. So what sort of bravery is it to run away when you are at risk and otherwise to stay silent. Think about it. We now have a bulk of Ukrainian, mostly women and children in Finland and now we are getting Russian men as well. Oh the irony.

[@HooDatDonDar]

A man running from the military police came to a nun, and said “Hide me under your skirt, sister! I’ll explain later”. The MP’s ran by. The man came out and said “Thanks! They wanted to send me to Ukraine. Oh, excuse me, but, nice legs.” The nun said “ If you had stayed longer, you would have seen some nice balls. I don’t want to go to Ukraine, either.”

[@blackjackmaestro6505]

In England we have a funeral for our beautiful Queen and we are all devastated, in Russia you have people running away from oppression. It is a strange world. The people in Russia have no say, just see the outpouring of grief in England, and you will see why one country is a super power and the other is just a bully

[@tedunguent156]

All it would take is ONE BRAVE MAN in Russia to end all of this. Someone close to Putin.

[@Hawky2947]

Putin doesn't have anyone too close. Should be said as well, it won't end with Putin - he has named successors (all FSB and cruel as well) and their government is made of extremist political parties. That's what happens when he eliminated all opposition.

[@pollyanne234]

I agree

[@paulblichmann2791]

More like someone close to Zelensky.

[@tedunguent156]

@@paulblichmann2791 Wrong.

[@justin4360]

To any Russians we don’t hate you friends just the choices made by your government. I hope one day we can all sit and have a drink. Keep yah head up nothing but love

[@jeanniesherman3591]

Well said, justin 👏👏👏👏👏

[@garethwilliams2897]

Same choices but worse made by UK and US governments the past 20 years without any sanctions or consequences. One sided media leads to one sided mindset.

[@rustzz8]

@@garethwilliams2897 Russian bot

[@MDAmazink]

@@garethwilliams2897 what? Everybody knows the us has done horrible things in the past but this situations is brand new. Obviously it gets more talked about. It is only logical

[@michealjones9863]

@@garethwilliams2897 I love your hat! Tin foil is it

[@princesscadance197]

The hardest thing for any patriot to accept is that their enemy could be anything like them. A truth that many devoted hide away from.

[@bigboyrambo2009]

What kind of man runs away from his country when it's under attack

[@filip7342]

Russia is under attack ? What the **** ? 😀

[@bigboyrambo2009]

@@filip7342 ever hear of sanctions? Did you know this war started in 2014?

[@filip7342]

@@bigboyrambo2009 so what ? Is Ukraine occupying any Russian city, taking their territory? no, they are fighting for their territory, which has been occupied by Russian soldiers since 2014. Sanctions are only respond u dumbass.

[@tinkerdink25]

We don't hate you!! My heart is broken for them:( I hope the ones who didn't want to be involved in the draft were able to get out in time.

[@petersomthing9508]

if your baby's children were killed by them , and you raped you may think different , but you may be Russian and think that,s ok

[@jaykjellberg5274]

As a Russian who left russia 6+ months ago, yes, people do hate us. When you are unable to open a bank account in any European country, when Georgians openly threaten young russians in Georgia, Armenia and so on. Hell, I even posted a job opening specifically for Ukranian people, once they found out I am originally from Russia they started sending me death threats. People cheer when another EU country stops issuing visa's to Russians. They say "protest within your country, we did it" forgetting that Ukranie never had a full-out-blown dictatorship with enough funds to support it. Even Belorussians didn't manage to throw their dictator, yet they expect Russians to overthrow ours. The hate is super real, trust me. and media only pushes it to the extremes.

[@duby9811]

We do

[@nottheone582]

unfortunately it will be many of the poorer and uneducated who get conscripted and probably die. another tax on the poor, this time on their lives

[@TuorTheBlessedOfUlmo]

@@duby9811 any russian worth having respect for left decades ago.

[@laurelsherwin1271]

Those who flee and run away, live to love another day. Be safe. God be with you.

[@thepunisher2988]

You can say the same thing to Ukrainians.

[@puraLusa]

@@kirinrn nope, they just did a form of protest just by avoiding to be drafted. This is more than go to a protest and be drafted anyway. When my country entered a war wrongly a lot of brave young kids didn't know how to read or write but they ran to france and avoided conscription and denied any form of war.

[@jevhenijhorvat8431]

@@kirinrn Don't think it is possible. The experience is that they will be calling Putin to come save them.

[@Misael8924]

Fight for you're Freedom's don't run away like cowards and put a burden on other tax payers nation's to take care of you. This is already creating dispute among the locals. Some must flee, but geez. This is just like the guy who waite's to see who comes out Victorious then take his part. Only Women do that.

[@thepunisher2988]

@@Misael8924 Well, would you fight when there are loads of foreigners who are willing to take your place and fight on your behalf?. Anyone can claim to be heroic with words, but once you are put in that position, you will behave according to your human nature, and that is that people want to survive. If someone else will fight for you, you won't bother, especially when that could get you killed.

[@synappticuser7296]

'Find what you love and run towards it. Find what you do not love, and run away from it as fast as you can.' Kabir

[@Philipdaawieh]

Very sad 😢