Who We Are: 

We are Russians forced into exile for our anti-war stance, participation in protests, human rights advocacy, and journalism. In Russia, we face political persecution, arrest, torture, and imprisonment.

Today, many of us are seeking asylum in the United States - a nation that has always professed its support for freedom and human rights. However, we have found the U.S. asylum system to be cruel, unpredictable, and unjust. Decisions are often based not on the consistent application of the law, but on arbitrary factors and the shifting political climate.

Examples of a Systemic Failure:

1.  Leonid Melekhin, a Russian activist, was deported from the U.S. in July 2025, despite documented threats against him. Upon arrival in Russia, he was detained by FSB agents directly at the airport. He is now under arrest in Perm city, facing charges of "justifying terrorism" for participating in protests and for his anti-war posts. His case is being linked to an "extremist organization" - Alexei Navalny's political network.
2.  Vladislav, an activist, spent 14.5 months in an immigration detention center in Louisiana—a region known by human rights advocates as a "deportation hub" where asylum is almost never granted. Despite an active appeal, authorities attempted to deport him. Only a last-minute intervention secured his return from JFK airport back to detention. His case file included letters of support from human rights groups and media outlets, yet his asylum claim was denied. He continues to fight for his safety under the constant threat of detention and deportation.

What We Demand:

Fair and transparent due process for Russian asylum seekers, with individual case reviews conducted in full accordance with U.S. and international law.
An immediate halt to all deportations to Russia - a country where the threat of persecution is systemic and well-documented, in observance of the principle of non-refoulement.
The use of safe third-country alternatives for individuals whom the U.S. is not prepared to grant asylum.
Coordination between the U.S., Canada, and EU nations to establish effective protection mechanisms for Russian political refugees.
Respect for human rights in immigration detention and at the border, including dignified treatment, adequate medical care, and meaningful access to legal counsel.

Why This Is Critical:

In today's Russia, a single anti-war post can lead to prison and torture.
The United States must not return people to a place where their lives are in literal danger.
If the system does not change, tragedies like Leonid's will be repeated.

Sign This Petition:

For Justice.
For Human Rights.
To Save Lives.