Overview

• Six Russian military deserters have found refuge in France after escaping the war in Ukraine and are urging other soldiers to follow their lead.
• These deserters include a lieutenant who was shocked by the invasion and an infantryman who fled to avoid being forced into combat.
• The group escaped through Kazakhstan, a rare destination accessible with internal passports, despite fears of extradition to Russia.
• Their arrival in France follows extensive verification of their stories by multiple NGOs, marking a unique decision in Europe.
• The deserters are now working on a project to anonymously share stories from soldiers, aiming to inspire others to leave the military.