The authorities of the European Union are currently discussing harsh measures aimed at restricting the entry of Russian citizens who have taken part in combat, including those who refused to continue the war. These measures are already becoming reality: several European states are systematically denying asylum to Russian deserters, accusing them of “complicity” and depriving them of any possibility of finding safe refuge. This is happening even though many Russian citizens were forcibly compelled to serve in the army – pressure that continues to intensify.
At the same time, desertion and unauthorized abandonment of military posts within the Russian army are increasing in response to an endless war and the crimes of the regime. According to estimates by independent journalists and the OSINT community, between 100,000 and 120,000cases of refusal to participate in violence and massacres have been recorded since the start of the full- scale invasion. Only 15–20% of these cases have resulted in legal proceedings. The majority of deserters remain in Russia in constant fear: if arrested, they face torture, imprisonment, transfer to “assault battalions,” or death at the front. Only a tiny minority manage to reach a safe country.
Desertion is a powerful instrument against war: it weakens the regime’s military machine and saves lives. Supporting those who choose life and peace can accelerate the end of the conflict and become a strong signal in favor of internal change in Russia.
Granting asylum falls within the sovereignty of national states. Yet Europe is closing almost all doors to them. Even in France, where the CNDA has recognized that desertion may constitute grounds for asylum, only a few individuals have received protection. In Germany, at the beginning of 2026, the authorities began increasingly rejecting asylum claims from Russian deserters. At the same time, several EU countries are considering a total entry ban for all Russian citizens who participated in the “SMO,” thereby depriving individuals of the right to life and humanitarian protection.
Likewise, for humanitarian reasons, we recognize the right of Ukrainian deserters to protection in the EU. The right to life and freedom takes precedence over the rights of the state.
Immediate demand
1) Recognize the refusal to participate in war.
(desertion and unauthorized abandonment of post) as a legitimate ground for obtaining asylum and protection in every country of the European Union. This is an act of conscience and a refusal to participate in crimes..
2) Issue humanitarian travel documents
(laissez-passer) to persons who do not possess an international passport, so that they may travel safely to the EU and apply for protection.
3) Broadly inform the population about available avenues
of protection, so that desertion becomes a genuinely accessible choice rather than an act of desperation.
By: Support Network for Deserters. The expressions of support can be sent to soutien.deserteurs@gmail.com.