Recently, Leonid Volkov, a representative of the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK), made a statement in an interview with journalist Yuri Dud that, despite its significance, did not spark widespread reaction among Russian opposition circles. He stated that neither he personally nor his organization intend to defend Russians abroad, including those forced into political exile. Moreover, Volkov called such efforts “detached from reality” — although it remains unclear what exactly he meant by this “detachment from reality.” This statement once again casts doubt on the moral principles and real goals of the liberal opposition, which, one might think, should be defending the rights and interests of Russian citizens, especially those who have suffered for their political beliefs.
This situation further underscores the deep crisis of trust within the opposition movement. Instead of supporting those who for years risked their freedom and well-being by helping to fight the repressive system, Volkov and his associates have effectively distanced themselves from their own supporters. People who previously attended rallies, wrote open letters, donated funds, and showed solidarity with opposition leaders now find themselves betrayed.
This is felt especially acutely by political emigrants who have ended up in difficult circumstances abroad. For them, support from the opposition was both natural and essential. They had counted on the leaders for whom they were fighting to show solidarity with their problems. However, reality turned out otherwise: Volkov’s statements are perceived as blatant indifference and a stab in the back.
In contrast to this approach, we, the Post-Soviet Left (PSL), are not only ready but actively directing our efforts to help political refugees in Europe.
Our organization strives to be a real support for those who find themselves in a difficult situation because of their political views, anti-war stance, or fight against injustice.
As part of this work, we are implementing the Migrant Collective project, which provides assistance to labor migrants from the post-Soviet space. We identify their problems, help resolve labor disputes, and protect their rights. This project is carried out in partnership with the initiative Antijob, enabling us to effectively resist exploitation and fight violations of labor rights.
In addition, we actively support deserters—both Russian and Ukrainian—who have refused to participate in military actions. Our goal is to provide them with legal, material, and moral support, as well as to facilitate their integration into European society.
Our organization also actively supports the strike movement in France. In particular, our comrades participated in the strike of Russian and Ukrainian guides from Orange Bikes in Paris, showing solidarity with their struggle and supporting their demands. We intend to continue to promote a class-based agenda and strengthen workers’ solidarity.
We also provide assistance to political prisoners, drawing attention to their plight and organizing events in their support. We consistently call on European institutions and public organizations not to cease helping Russians who find themselves in critical situations.
Our principle is solidarity and support for all who fight for their beliefs and face repression. We are convinced that only through joint efforts can we build a society free from injustice and violence.
At the same time, although we are actively working in this area and ready to help our comrades, supporters, and anyone in trouble, our organization has no funding. We do not receive grants; we do not own luxury villas like Leonid Volkov does in Lithuania; we are not sponsored by oligarchs. We are just as much political refugees as those we help and are fighting purely for our own ideals. Our actions are based on the principles of solidarity, mutual assistance, and responsibility to those who face injustice. We remain true to our beliefs, regardless of all difficulties and obstacles.
