We all know the hurdles of bureaucracy — unfortunately there has been no helpful support so far, even though it sometimes appeared otherwise. A call for help for Leo’s family has been posted on the Instagram account “Friendlyotters.” If you have Instagram, please visit the post and tag the relevant people 🙏🏽

Last Instagram Post from our friendly Otters 🦦 🦦

Ifanyone lives in the region where the affected people are registered, it would be very helpful to contact them by email to raise awareness of the petition locally (Some emails  from me have not been delivered; this may be due to my country of residence — that is only a suspicion) The last tip I received these days was to contact the Ukrainian consulate directly - I will follow up with them too 🙏🏽

We are a strong Community and together we can more achieve.

Updated 16. Februar 2026

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I would like to draw attention once again to the critical situation of Leo, who is still in Venezuela. His situation remains extremely concerning, and now every day is crucial for him.

Venezuela approved today his extradition to russia ❗️Leo needs  immediately help 🕊️ 

Updated: 8. August 

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I would like to draw your attention to the situation of Leo Zakamaldin. Leo, a Russian citizen of Ukrainian ethnicity, is facing imminent extradition from Venezuela to Russia, scheduled for July 29, 2025.

Leo is confronted with legal challenges stemming from his support for Ukraine. His brother is a U.S. citizen, and the majority of his family resides in the United States. In light of recent diplomatic developments, where Venezuelans were exchanged for Americans, we would like to suggest that Leo be considered for inclusion in the next list of potential prisoner exchange measures.

We appreciate your support and commitment to upholding human rights.

Updated: 27. June

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We, the undersigned of this petition, urgently call for support for Leo Zakamaldin, a loving Otter dad (IG: friendlyotters) who has been detained under difficult conditions in Venezuela for over 363 days. Leo's health has deteriorated catastrophically, and his life is in grave danger.

Leo is a dedicated individual who has devoted his life to helping those in need. He has actively supported people in his homeland (Ukraine) and is known in the United States and Ukraine for his volunteer work.

We advocate for Leo to return to his two sweet Otters Hazel and Pushan as soon as possible. Their love and support mean the world to him, and they need Leo and we want to them together again.

Through this petition, we aim to raise awareness of Leo's situation and ensure that he receives the appropriate help to reunite with Hazel and Pushan. It is time to prioritize humanity above all else.

Sign this petition and help us save Leo!

Why I Started This Petition

In one of my darkest phases, I discovered my love for otters 🦦

Especially the Instagram account of Hazel and Pushan (FriendlyOtters), run by Leo, was a true light in the darkness for me. Thanks to Alessia, they still brighten my day, and the community receives regular updates about Leo's situation.

I had the opportunity to visit Leo during my trip to Bali in 2023. Of course, I had the time of my dreams with Hazel and Pushan. Leo is a good person – incredibly hospitable, funny, and helpful. Leo has dedicated himself to helping people in war zones and has stood by his beliefs. Now, he is being held in Venezuela without any apparent reason.

It has now been over a year, and despite all the efforts of his family, there has been no progress. Last week, Leo had a heart attack, and his situation is truly critical. This petition aims to shine a light on his situation and raise awareness among organizations and the public about the injustice he has faced. Unfortunately, there have been no responses to previous attempts.

Your signature can help Leo finally return to Hazel and Pushan, to lead a happy life as much as possible after these months 💔 Every signature counts! 💖