Russian activists face removal from Finland as asylum pleas rejected

A Russian couple who campaigned against Moscow's invasio…

A Russian couple who campaigned against Moscow's invasion of Ukraine say they are staring at deportation from Finland, even though returning home could land them in prison or worse.

Nikita and Olga Belov left Russia in 2022 after their anti-war stance drew unwanted attention from the authorities. They received military draft notices, menacing communications, and were actively sought by officials, prompting them to flee.

Despite presenting their case to Finnish immigration authorities, the couple's asylum requests have been turned down repeatedly. They now fear that being sent back to Moscow would expose them to arrest, imprisonment, and potentially torture for their political activities.

The Belovs argue that their outspoken support for

The Belovs argue that their outspoken support for Ukraine makes them targets in a country where dissent is swiftly crushed. They maintain that their activism, which began with public opposition to the invasion, has marked them for persecution.

Their legal battle in Finland has stretched on, with each rejection deepening their sense of desperation. The couple contends that Finnish officials have failed to grasp the real danger they would face upon return.

As their case moves toward a final decision, the Belovs await an outcome that could upend their lives once again. They insist that their only crime was speaking out against a war they believe is unjust, and that Finland, a nation that shares a long border with Russia, should offer them refuge rather than send them back.