Russian deserters in Georgia | DW Documentary
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- Опубліковано 27 лис 2022
- In September 2022, Russian President Putin ordered a partial mobilization to deploy more soldiers to Ukraine. But many Russians defied that order and fled the country - as many as half a million to date.
Some 100,000 Russian deserters have fled to Georgia so far. The nation maintains very close, but also rather strained relations with its neighbor - after all the most recent war with Russia wasn’t that long ago. Just how welcome are the deserting Russians? How are they faring in a foreign country after an often-risky journey out of Russia? DW reporter Oxana Evdokimova reports from the Georgian capital Tbilisi.
#documentary #dwdocumentary #tbilisi
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They're not deserters if they were never in the military to begin with. They are just trying to avoid an unjust mobilization.
I guess the correct term is "draft dodgers". But many are also political refugees, i.e. they are fleeing repression by the state and by state-funded militias in Russia.
@@nathanbyd570 they were scared for their lives not necessary because they're against the war.
@@sopurusurplus7951 Evil Men Are On The Decline Now
We Living In The Time Of Death To Evil Men👊🏿👊🏾👊🏽👊🏼👊🏻👊
They're draft dodgers, similar to Americans who sought asylum in Canada during the Vietnam War to avoid being drafted.
Also not all are there to desert. Many are collecting names and faces.
Hello, I am a russian who fled ruzzia on 23 of september. Since the war (yes, WAR and not "special military operation") started I had been depressed, had problems sleeping after reading horrors of war crimes that russian army was commiting. Those videos and images are imprinted in my mind. I felt powerless and hollow. One of my best friends fled russia right after war started and me and my other best friend cheered him on it. He has money and could do it, but it was not easy or cheap.
Me and other best friend had no money. We were trying to save for tickets to somewhere, we were working, but for no awail. A lot of places just closed, many more reduced pay or fire people outright. It was hard to obtain a decent ammount of money.
As summer was blooming we relaxed a bit, and it was our mistake. By the end of the summer I had 2 jobs that were not the best but could help me get somewhere.
Me and my best friend now reside in Kazakhstan. I heard many stories of good people in Georgia, Armenia, Kazakhstan etc. Stories of people helping people. But to be on the reciveng end of volunteers was bizzare. People helped us, strangers. Some were giving tea and others were allowing to sleep in their places. It was the first time I had something like this happened to me. In russia a lot of volonterring work is done from position of "Our college forced us to volunteer" or "We were treatened to go to this pro Putin rally or we could be fired from our jobs". I had tears in my eyes when people came and just wanted to help, no strings attached. We were thinking "There is sure must be a trick" but no. We just had been living in a country where you are always suspicious of actions of kindness.
We were not expecting any people to help us at all because of what russia is doing right now. But we were wrong. And I am glad we were. Thank you people of Georgia, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Litva, Finland and many other countries that helped Ukranians and Russians who fled due to the war!
I am okay but many people in Ukraine are not right now. If you can, donate something to small charities and individuals who help regular people on the ground (don't donate to red cross as I heard they are quite useless and majority of work is being done by small teams). (even spare change is enough, dollars and euro have nice convertation rate)
Glory to Ukraine, I hope they will be victorious and take their land back. I don't need nor Crimea nor Donbas. Fuck this imperialist bullshit. Fuck the war.
And fuck Putin.
Хуй войне. Ебал путина в его ботоксное ебало, пускай сдохнет в своём бункере.
Also funny thing. My friend was in mandatory army a few years ago. He still hava not recived any draft letter. None.
And me? a draft dodger for 3 years before the war (Pacifist), had at least 2 letters coming to my grandparents house.
Another funny thing. Many mothers and fathers were driving their sons to conscription points. Oh. It is not funny, I lied.
And as we are taling about lies. A lot of people think that war is going great. All they see is propaganda on TV where even losses and defeats are being presented as victories or minor things not worth a thought. Many believe these lies and many just live trying to forget this is happening.
😢❤️
It must be absolutely heartbreaking and devastating for you as well as Ukraine in this position. I'm glad you're safe and healthy. All power to you for being strong enough as well as your friends. ❤
Touching letter
Please be strong and do continue to speak out. Your words will help others and let them know that they are not alone. Please also stay safe and take care.
A deserter is somebody who is already enlisted in the armed forces and went away. In this case you are referring to people who avoided being enlisted. A crucial difference!
It takes much more courage to be a deserter than be a draft dodger.
@@graceg3250 what is that even supposed to mean? and I don't mean literally....the undertone of that statement seems not nice at all...
@@graceg3250 your comment makes absolutely no sense
@@graceg3250 I understand what you mean. But many “draft dodgers” may not be drafted. They ran away only just in case they were called up!
In my country, hopefully our men and women won’t have a war, but in case there IS a war it would be difficult to run away as my country is surrounded by water!
@@GT-ox3pe she’s correct. Much harder to desert
his mother prefered him to fight. this brakes my heart. how people can be fooled at such level. My mother would die before sending me to fight any fight.
She probably harks back to the days of the Soviet Union... older Russians are more russified and indoctrinated..... the only future Russia has is with young people like the young men in this documentary who can see things for what they really are.....
JUST SHOWS YOU THE WEAKNESS OF THE SAD POOR RUSSIAN PEOPLE !!M HAVE YOU SEEN PUKTINS NEW MANSION 🇬🇧🇧🇧
Majority of Russians are vegetative brainwashed sheep and believe all the propaganda on their TVs. Brainwashed, day in, day out, to the point where they can't think for themselves at all.
@@buzzinsmaug664 just like the Americans believed Iraq had weapons of mass destruction???
Americans don't run. If our country calls we answer.
These are the true humanitarians - the ones who stand up & leave to express the courage of their convictions for a peaceful world ✌️🤗❤️
They didn´t stand up. They left
Also not all are there to desert. Many are collecting names and faces.
Not really. Most of them just don't wanna go to the Frontline & get killed. And in reality don't care about Ukraine & Ukrainians and Russia's atrocities there
Beautiful Georgian people. To help these guys out.
TOTAL RESPECT TO THE PEOPLE OF GEORGIA... YOU KNOW WHAT IS LIKE TO BE ATTACKED BY THE RUSSIAN FASCISTS... THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT TO THE DECENT AND RESPECTED PEOPLE OF RUSSIA THAT GOT AWAY RATHER THAN JOIN PUKTINS BLOODSHED IN THE UKRAINE ...SLAVA UKRAINE AND SLAVA GEORGIA ... YOU WILL ALWAYS BE SUPPORTED BY THE UK ...LIVERPOOL UK X🇧🇧🇬🇧
Politics aside, Tbilisi looks like a really nice city.
yeah I knew nothing about Georgia before this war but i'm surprised what a cool country it seems like. didnt expect a climate with palms and stuff.
Come in January. You'll love it!
It's like a Hipster Istanbul...without an Erdogan!
It does look like a vibrant hippie community
I have always wanted to go there. Even the name is beautiful.
I feel so sad for these young men, they seem to be so peaceful and intelligent, I can only imagine having to run out of my own country.
Ya well, we're only one election away from that possibility :(
Keep in mind these young men said nothing when their country invaded and annexed part of Georgia, then the Crimea and the entire nation of Ukraine.
ONLY when Putin brought back the draft did they care and again, only about their selves.
@@kevinJmadsen from where are you ? Wich election are you talking about ?
Bonjour de France les amis ✌😉👍🇫🇷
And peacefully support putin &russian politics 👍
@@guncreep9905 USA but it can and does happen anywhere, 1933 Germany, 1994 Belerus Lukashenko, 2010 Hungary. The list is to long to finish.
I feel so really sorry for these young men, life is hard enough with trying to start a career family etc without your home country trying to send you off to war and then prosecuting you for not going. I hope they can start new lives and be happy.
I know, Putin's only mission and GOAL is to own Ukraine nothing else matters to those thugs.
He could care less about the Russian lives lost in Ukraine. Instead, of ending the war they continue sending more and more Russian soldiers to their deaths in Ukraine. He invades Ukraine and he speaks lies to justify his invasion of Ukraine. But I can guarantee you this, Putin and his thugs would NEVER think about sending their children to fight in Ukraine. But it's ok with them to send other people's children to their death, all so they can own Ukraine.
URKAINAIN WOMEN ARE BEING HOSPITATLISED IN WESTERN EUROPE BEATEN BY GANGS OF THESE RUSSIAN MEN YOUR HEROS - WHYY? THEY HEARD TEHM SPEAKING UKRAINIAN. THESE ARE NAZIS WHO LOVE RUSSIA'S WAR & PUTIN
Well done for presenting these Russians. Hats off to them.
Do you really know they are deserters? I see 3 russian speaking men (alleged) to have deserted on a site that clearly states they are a proxy of the German government.
you love cowards
Man, I Couldn't Imagine Leaving My Country And My Family Just So I Can Survive... God Bless These Young Men And All Other Young Men Who Do This!
Many of these young men don't have anything against the war but they just don't want to take part in it. It's enough to ask about the Crimea to know their real motifs.
@@gregf.7436 I guess you know these men personally to have such in-depth knowledge.
That's so sad that he went back. Wife, kids, yes...but he won't be able to enjoy the wife and kids if he's 'dealt with' for being against the war, or if he's sent to the army to die as cannon fodder. He gets back to moscow, and is planning to leave again permanently...IF he can get out a second time. Tragic. The whole thing is tragic.
using family members as blackmail was commonplace in the soviet era, I don't think it changed much
@@csehszlovakze nothing indicates that is the cause. his wife simply didn't want to relocate
@@michaelzlprime if so, than that's not a wife, it's a psychopath.
That's pretty sad...he'll get conscripted if he doesn't make it out in time. *Guaranteed!*
@@michaelzlprime I agree with you. On the video they say why he goes back and it's because she doesn't wanna leave Russia where her family is. It's him being pussy whipped and worried about her finding another dick to ride while he's, hiding from the FSB, in another country.
That old man at the start who has taken in so many Russians is an angel.
especially this late in the game.
Do the people in Georgia speak Russian or some other language ?
WRZ 2022-12-02
Delaware County, PA USA
@@ccdogpark not all of course but many do speak Russian
@@aumelb
I didn't ask that question right.
Does the country of Georgia have their own official language
that is different from the rest of Europe ?
I've never heard anyone say they speak Georgian.
Possibly Herschel Walker, but no one really knows what language he speaks.
@@ccdogpark age of the internet fella
Georgian is the most widely-spoken Kartvelian language, and serves as the literary language or lingua franca for speakers of related languages. It is the official language of Georgia and the native or primary language of 87.6% of its population. Its speakers today number approximately four million.Wikipedia
Brave and wise Russians….my respect….we wish the people in Ukraine also peace and freedom…
Not seeing a lot of bravery in making do for oneself and avoiding conflict. It doesn't occur to them that for this war to end, they too need to take action.
So ultimately, they're no better than the russians at home.
It takes a hell of a lot more courage to knowingly get frozen to death in Ukraine than run away with no long-term plan. I know, these guys are between a rock and a hard place, so they're basically screwed either way. Still, they're definitely no heroes, no matter how you want to see it.
Ukraine had freedom, and democracy. Peace will come when Russia withdraws its forces, returns Ukrainian land, and compensates Ukraine for the unbelievable architectural, environmental and infrastructure damage they have caused. It will take generations to restore the landscape, if it is even possible.
so brave to run from their motherland spouting bs about freedom while lacking the balls to stand up for their beliefs. they benefit from the brave men of Georgia who resisted the Russians to remain free. now they run to Georgia looking like the biggest cowards on Earth.
It's important to acknowledge that there are good Russians, like these men.
there are very good Russians that stay and fight as well
@@markandmellwhiteley7995 They stay and fight Putin or against Ukraine? If it's Putin then I agree.
Never ever judge a book by its cover this is a plot
@@neal.karn-jones no, they change their regime
These young men are hero,s .Not willing to fight a war that makes no sense at all but power .stay safe xoxo
Shawna from Canada
As a Pakistani I fully support love and respect Georgia and its beautiful people from Pakistan 🙂
kind nuts that georgia is just one country away from pakistan
TOTAL RESPECT TO THE PEOPLE OF GEORGIA... YOU KNOW WHAT IS LIKE TO BE ATTACKED BY THE RUSSIAN FASCISTS... THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT TO THE DECENT AND RESPECTED PEOPLE OF RUSSIA THAT GOT AWAY RATHER THAN JOIN PUKTINS BLOODSHED IN THE UKRAINE ...SLAVA UKRAINE AND SLAVA GEORGIA ... YOU WILL ALWAYS BE SUPPORTED BY THE UK ...LIVERPOOL UK X🇧🇧🇬🇧
I am in Batumi (Georgia's second largest city - Black Sea coast). These days for every one person who I hear speaking Georgian on the street, I usually hear 2-4 people speaking russian. Rents have sky rocketed. Georgians are well practiced at judging individuals for individual beliefs, so those russians who are against the war will not find an overtly unfriendly nation. Georgia is rightly known as a hospitable country, and even before the war there were a lot of anti Putin russians moving to Georgia to escape russia. I know a few who got out years ago because they knew their mouths would get them in trouble; they could not stand quietly by after 2008, or 2014... but still, the atmosphere here is definitely more tense than it was a year ago.
do you write about Russian with a small letter because of your Nazism or for another reason?
I'm surprised Georgia would allowed any Russians after 2008.
@@watchingvids9899 bro keep losing the war we all like it🤡
@@SEAZNDragon Georgia has never introduced visas for Russians. Russian tourists are the most massive flow of tourism to Georgia over the past 10-15 years. I'll tell you more - before the war with Ukraine, half of the Georgians were for Putin. Now I can't say for sure. A million Georgians live in Russia. There are 10 times fewer Russians in Georgia.
@@Kevin-xq2tv Are you at war? Me not. I'm Georgian.
I love Tbilisi, I think I spent a few nights in the hostel Alexey stays, nice owner and workers and guests. Great country.
You can see that he's a gentle kind man, the way he interacts with the cat!
Well, Hitler was also an animal lover...
@@amiable_monster Dog lover, there’s a difference. Most cat lovers are animal lovers, but the same can’t be said for dog lovers.
I remember a number of friends I had in Toronto who left the US avoiding the draft to fight in 'nam. They became good Canadians few ever went back when the war ended. they liked our lifestyle up here. Things never change War never changes.
8:36 His mother wanted him to fight. That shows you the mindset of most Russians.
I spent my last night in Georgia at that Hostel in September. The vibe is far from jovial. Quite somber, with many sad stories of loved one left behind. I wish them all well. This madness must end.
I really feel for the guy who's mother wants to chuck him into the meat grinder.
It's heartbreaking when your own flesh and blood would happily throw you under the bus because they've been so propagandised that it has become impossible to reason with them.
I feel like I've "lost" both of my parents to political and religious propaganda.
At least mine haven't stuck a gun in my hand and told me to go and shoot the neighbours yet.
Small mercies.
Selfish ignorant mothers!
My heart breaks when I hear these stories, i mostly feel sorry for these men when they feel never accepted anywhere,I hope God protects them where ever they go. Please stay safe.
💙🙏🏻💛
Another thing we all can do is forma group to help Russian against the Invasion to be free from Russia and help them to find work, these ppl are good Rassians against attacking their neighbors,but I feel they had been left with no a lot of help...
Ypi feel sorry? So he staid in russia and qould still be in russia if not for mobilization. Over 10 million Ukraine fled their homes bcs russia. Tjis guys are not good people
@@pipo4158 um, what? Yes, they could still be in Russia, how does it make them bad? They fled because they aren't killers and they don't want to participate in this war, and that makes them good guys.
@@dnlmurray they are bad bcs they didnt care before. Russian invaded Ukraine 2014. None of these russians ever cared. Tzey paid taxes and lived their lives. Now tzey flee bcs war is coming to them? No. They should go and die for putin. No nation shouod let an russian man enter its nation. My opinion
I have Russian relatives living in the US, they’ve lived outside for many years but feel lost bc they never felt right inside Russia but still love their country/culture. They speak to relatives and struggle to hold a conversation because it always goes back to “NATO is trying to get us” and just falls apart, it’s very hard for them. This ain’t to detract from Ukrainians who have it much harder, just it’s important to remember that there are decent Russians out there many of whom have chosen to leave their homeland and families because of their horrible government. Others argue they should’ve stayed and fought, but most people don’t realize how absurd that prospect is, besides the fact that most Russian don’t have weapons and face and extremely well armed police/national guard, a good amount of the Russian population supports the government so it’s a losing battle, the only chance these people have is to flee.
It’s sad so many people have been brainwashed by the Russian government
You might walk them through that pseudo logic of what in fact it is NATO trying to get and what they have now that's better than what NATO could provide. Any NATO takeover of Russia (rediculous notion) would be a dream come true for peasant class Russians who outside of a couple major cities, generally live a lower quality of life than all of Western Europe, UK and USA
I can relate 100%.
Well they can Start Partisan War against Dictator who Ruined Future of Russian generation and Person who's not ready to Die for his own Children's Freedom than they Definitely don't deserve to hide in another country because theirs is in ruins
Its okay to love your country and culture. But you dont have to like your dictator and government. That is a choice
Let's hope that it ends soon, so these young men can live peacefully. ✌❤🩹Also, Georgian people are amazing, for their humanity.
They are not amazing , Georgians have been discriminating and humiliating Russians people in every way
Finally, someone talking about Georgians and not only "poor russians"
These are the real men and future of Russia...if Russia wants a place in the world. Men of peace. Praise God for these men. Slava Ukraine
Eh, well, I'm banking more on the Russian armed resistance, like the ones fighting against Russians in Ukraine. Russia needs people to get bloody if they're going to go anywhere after Putin.
These men are cowards. As for being the future of Russia, nothing the west would like more than cowards leading Russia.
They are never going home.....
@@StompingRabbits we are. Putin is still mortal
They are deserters. Lots of people dont believe in the wars their countries wage. You are making these men out to be honorable for political reasons. Disgusting. Next stop, Western Europe and leeching off taxpayers. Just like people from Africa, Afghanistan and elsewhere.
Stand Fearless My Brothers Praying For You All
No matter what their next move is, I wish they'll have a peaceful, happy and fulfilled life.
I live as a foreigner in Georgia, and while most Russians who come are doing it because of personal belief, there are of course a number of infiltrators. Russians are known to keep together here, but it causes a lot of friction, as they expect to speak Russian and be understood wherever they go. Life in Georgia has become far more expensive, as Russians splash the cash, and locals cannot get rental property as easily as before. There are just so many, and while the government is happy to take them, the people themselves in some cases feel intimidated. The government is very Russia biased, and with rich Russians coming and getting property and starting work - which may not lead to long term employment - there is tension, especially after 2008. Figures for growth are artificially inflated, so this whole thing could end in disaster for the local population, especially if Russia casts its eyes this way again. There is no clear winner in Georgia, but to avoid friction, I would advise any Russian to try to integrate and not remain in a group - and realise English is the second language of Georgia, not Russian - it is mostly due to repression that older people speak Russian here and not English, as it was forced onto the country. I do apologise if my words seem harsh or unfair, but my experience of Georgia dates back to 2010, and since then, so many factors have seen it decline to what it is today. Politics aside, having such a large influx is alarming, and it only takes one spark to start a fire, if you understand what I mean. Slava Ukraini, Heroyam Slava
Interesting to hear the perspective of someone living there.
I don’t find your words harsh at all and it’s obvious to me that not everyone fleeing mobilization is actually against the war and Putin but just want to save their own skin.
I hope all this won’t end up hurting Georgia even more than it already has.
Thank you - very helpful info. for an English reader trying to make sense of the 'ex-USSR' !
Understand it from their point. Their in a country and can't speak the language and most don't have family or know anyone. I would stick with my people too until I got acclimated to the other way of life. It's comfort being among you're own kind nothing more. It would be like you coming to my reservation in northern Michigan and being the only wasichu and couldn't speak our Ojibwe language. You would feel like an outsider and would look to find people like you but would not find it here. There many circumstances at play and we shouldn't judge because it's not of their doing!
…and what the gentleman says is the other ugly face of the coin.
He knows what’s talking about . He is a Russian “refugee” himself and he very sincere about what he sees happening in the host country because of the situation he is in.
I don´t want russians in my country neither and russia even didn´t invade my country. Like you said, infiltrators. I prefer helping Ukrainians
Russians have arrived In the Philippines I was a bit surprised to know that some of them have found our province like a guy now started vlogging in staccato English but then he is supported by American and other expats. I was on a bus last week and three young foreign guys one sat beside me while the two sat next to us. They were kinda chatty and a woman asked their nationality when they said Russian there was a dead silence. A part of me feel the pain and sadness from the youthfulness of those Russian brave enough to go into the unknown to oppose the war. Somehow I feel for them. I just wish they will learn something from us we might not be the number one choice in South East Asia I wish them to be happy and feel safe and at peace here.
The vlogger in the Philippines makes me angry because he won’t say anything against the War or gov’t.I wouldnt support him.
We have bunch of vloggers these days we have preference based on our taste I watch them sometimes but my support still to those that have immersed to humanity. Honestly he is boring and I saw Him once he passed by our home. When it comes into war I respect what ever made Him hold back but then with those expats vloggers they knew for sure. Thanks for the reply. I wish Ukrainians too would find our place they are most welcome here.
I worked in the Philippines and in Russia they are in general opposite types of people the Russians are stoic the Filipinos are happy go lucky friendly people I did like Saint Petersburg but given the choice I rather live in the Philippines especially in Cebu
@@lmrharper3586 That wouldn't help anything at all as he is just an ordinary person and being outside of Russia right now is one who many Russians would frown upon. The Russians need to raise up as a big group to try to over throw Putin and that can probably only be really lead by the ones still there.
@@tanyabrown9839 I couldn't agree more besides Russians have left so why bring with them the things that made them left in the first place they're here to recupe not exactly leaving things behind them completely. Time will tell when.
It's refreshing to see some decent Russians.
🇬🇪 🇺🇦 ❤️
They could be more, maybe a whole country.
As in Iran, some hair outside the veil, and all Persia is burning.
After decade of theocracy, Iranians people find the way to free them.
How it would be in Russia? I don't know. Are we allowed to hope?
@@ailleurd hope dies last.Dont lode hope.I pray for peace and freedom for all.
ALL 2 OF THEM !!! BUT I GUESS IT'S A START OF SORTS ...OH AND 1 OF THEM WENT BACK ???
@@allbyhisgrace8925
Me too. Peace on Earth...
@@ailleurd Looks like the only real chance for tangible freedom in parts of Russia is the disintegration of the federation, after which some of the current Russian 'republics' might actually turn into real republics by definition. It's like the dissolution of the USSR three decades ago, only this time it's just Russia that's dissolving.
I live near a North American port city and I remember Polish and Russian ship jumpers/defectors back many years ago. They landed with nothing and no English but they were honest and hard working.... and yes, the Russian guys families treated them like traitors and never spoke to them again. Whatever country you come from and are going to, it takes a certain strength of character to do it and start from scratch.
When British troops with "strength of character" refused to fight in WW1, hundreds of the worst cases were shot. I have no sympathy for cowards who leave their comrades in the lurch. But that was in the days when we were a great power, nowadays we would probably send them to a holiday resort for a few weeks, then find them a job back in Blighty, far from the front line.
The first young man put it laser sharp. Amazingly clear thinking in such a dire situation.
Those who refuse to fight are Heros. ❤️
Sorry, but no. Refusing to kill other people for absolutely nothing is not heroic. It is the bare minimum that is expected from any living person. Heroes are those who go out in the Russian streets and protest - and especially those who did that already before the mobilisation, let alone before the war. Those are heroes. Those refusing to fight are simply normal people. And those going to fight after it has been absolutely clear this is an offensive war for imperialistic ambitions are nothing but braindead animals.
Blessings to all these brave kids. 🙏🏼 God protect you all and hope for the best to you and your families.
When did running away become
re- defined as ' bravery ' ..! ?
@@2msvalkyrie529 it never was bravery, no one is running away. You are skewing what has actually happened. No one is happy about having to leave, do any of these people look happy? These were people forced to leave because of the political climate, don‘t treat them like dogs.
@@LionsInBoots yeah right, better running away then fight in your own country.
@@babajaga158 okay so if whatever you home nation is, decided that a war with an innocent group of people was worth losing lives over, you‘d happily go and murder others, WHO HAVE DONE NOTHING TO JUSTIFY THE WAR, because „it‘s your duty“, while not thinking about the fact that every man you put a bullet into had a mother, a family, a consciousness, and pretty much the same purpose as you. This modern notion that life is valueless and can just be thrown away for nothing, with no regard afterward is absolutely fucking vile and disgusting. Who are you to say that someone innocent should die?
TOTAL RESPECT TO THE PEOPLE OF GEORGIA... YOU KNOW WHAT IS LIKE TO BE ATTACKED BY THE RUSSIAN FASCISTS... THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT TO THE DECENT AND RESPECTED PEOPLE OF RUSSIA THAT GOT AWAY RATHER THAN JOIN PUKTINS BLOODSHED IN THE UKRAINE ...SLAVA UKRAINE AND SLAVA GEORGIA ... YOU WILL ALWAYS BE SUPPORTED BY THE UK ...LIVERPOOL UK X🇧🇧🇬🇧
I wish the best for them. 🤲
Smart men. I think all who are against the war should be welcomed
Maybe all those against pootin 🤡 should change there home land,if it takes another Revolution so be it.🇺🇦
It's amazing that ONE man can cause so much misery to his own people as well as innocents in neighboring countries. Putin is definitely guilty of war crimes.
It's never fault of one man, it's the whole society who let him and his circle into power. One man on his own wouldn't be able to cause all this.
The Russian people were just so apathetic about politics in the late 1990s-early 2000s that they allowed Putin to build a kleptocratic, authoritarian regime…which eventually became the totalitarian state it is today. Sure-Ukraine has some fascist elements: every European country does, but they do not run any countries. If you want to find the powerful fascists in Europe, look no further than Moscow and Minsk.
If it was just one person, the war in Chechnya, Georgia, Ukraine would never have happened
It's great that they are speaking up. Brave men.
They have to say what is expected of them, if they would speak up, what would Georgians do to them? Not mentioning this would just not be shown in this “documentary”
thank you georgian people, for all you have done for theses young MEN! YOUR COUNTRY , IS 'GOD'S PEOPLE.. THANKYOU , AND GOD BLESS YOU ALL!!!
Is so sad that we can't get along with each other....
Ukraine gets along with Russia just fine. But Russia invaded Ukraine so they (Putin and his supporters) are to blame for the issue now. It’s not a question of “not getting along.”
The problems of the cold war were already forgotten by America and Europe. They were all happy to see the countries of the former USSR moving towards cooperation and democracy for the most part. But Russia just had to play the role of the villain for nothing. Russia is so vast yet it wants more. And now it is considered the same as North Korea or worse since North Korea hasn't actually attacked anyone except it's own people. Now the Russian people will become isolated from the free world and prosperity. All because of Putin's bizarre ambition.
Don’t forget the holodomor.
I just hope that Georgia can find jobs for all! They are young, and can be an asset for their new country.
TOTAL RESPECT TO THE PEOPLE OF GEORGIA... YOU KNOW WHAT IS LIKE TO BE ATTACKED BY THE RUSSIAN FASCISTS... THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT TO THE DECENT AND RESPECTED PEOPLE OF RUSSIA THAT GOT AWAY RATHER THAN JOIN PUKTINS BLOODSHED IN THE UKRAINE ...SLAVA UKRAINE AND SLAVA GEORGIA ... YOU WILL ALWAYS BE SUPPORTED BY THE UK ...LIVERPOOL UK X🇧🇧🇬🇧
That guy who went back is going to end up dead or in prison. I just don't understand it. I get he misses his family, but is it better to be apart for a time or to be imprisoned/tortured/murdered?
I think it's the same mechanism that leads so many to go along with the mobilization itself, instead of hiding. The risk of dying seems abstract, and easier to downplay, deny or ignore, while immediate consequences, being arrested or, in his case, being separated from your family, appear more real and therefore a worse option. It's a fallacy, but that's how human brains work, sometimes.
Thank you for taking some time to humanize the Russian people's perspective in this horrible tragedy.
You have no reason to be here, orc. This is American social media.
If you want channels which humanize the Russian people's perspective, better watch "iEarlGrey", "Real Reporter" or "Sam's Russian Adventures" instead of this melancholy-music crap.
To that young man thinking of going back to Russia because of his wife, don't go. Forget the wife. You will find better. She is not on your side mate. There are so many women on this planet.
I imagine his children matter to him, too.
I know, not the most important detail, but that cat is beautiful.
God bless peaceful humans
I respect Georgian people and the sincere russian people...God be with them...and Georgia.
Georgia . Another corrupt third world hellhole ..! Masquerading as a democratic , progressive country..
TOTAL RESPECT TO THE PEOPLE OF GEORGIA... YOU KNOW WHAT IS LIKE TO BE ATTACKED BY THE RUSSIAN FASCISTS... THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR SUPPORT TO THE DECENT AND RESPECTED PEOPLE OF RUSSIA THAT GOT AWAY RATHER THAN JOIN PUKTINS BLOODSHED IN THE UKRAINE ...SLAVA UKRAINE AND SLAVA GEORGIA ... YOU WILL ALWAYS BE SUPPORTED BY THE UK ...LIVERPOOL UK X🇧🇧🇬🇧
Brave young men, God Bless and keep you.
Fantastic coverage.
They have brains to think. 👍
Second fellow - Send his mother to the front, yeah, I am sure she would go fight for him for the motherland. Ignorance is such a sad thing.
Good documentary!
I can identify. I was just young enough to avoid the draft for Vietnam by months. At the time I was planning on going to Canada if the war hadn't ended.
When you feel its the right thing to do, you do it.. just remember everyone's feelings are different, including your love one's.. stay well and be safe brothers of man... ✌
They refuse to make Ukrainians feel offended. I award all of them Good Man's Badge. 🎖x 0.1M 🎉🎉🎉
You bring joy to the world.
Love and respect from India, to all of you my friends.
These young Russian men are Russia's future. They are the true heroes who will one day return home to Russia and rebuild it after tyrant Putin is gone and having disappeared into the dustbins of history.
America is who you are for God's sake
Most can’t go back. They will be put in prison
@@ellenfaulkner7616 Agreed, that's why President Zelensky has offered for them to stay in Ukraine if they feel threatened in returning to Russia. Just shows how humane and concerned the Ukrainians are as compared to the Ruskies.
Don’t you have to be in the Army to be a deserter ? They are objector’s not deserter’s.
no need for the apostrophes. Objectors...
I hope some or all of these brave young men can rebuild Russia into a home fitting for such free people
Russian assets will be bought by china and the west after the war.
Cowards don't normally build a successful society .I don't think ?
You are supposed to fight for it .
NOT run away !
@@2msvalkyrie529 They cant fight back, they have no weapons
Beautiful city.
I understand how it feels. It's very sad. God bless them. Can the government of Georgia ask help from UN to help take care of these people?
Best wishes for German. It must be heartbreaking to have tried to live in Russia to be with his family and realising that this was not the best decision. May he soon be in a safe place!
I'm sure he's either already out of Russia, or well on track to be outside of Russia soon. However, being "outside of Russia" in this case most probably means being in Ukraine. While I do feel the irony of dying as a consequence of doing what is normally considered to be the right thing to do (staying close to your family and your kids!), just think of the tough decisions Ukrainian fathers have to make... For Russians, it's like being the brother of a mob boss - it might not have been your choice, but you should still do the right thing. If you stick with your mob murderous family, nobody will have pity on you. If German turns up on a Telegram channel, as a dead body on a picture in a trench, I will not bat an eyelid or stop for a moment. It was his choice to go back, even if a very tough one. Regards from Poland.
He'll soon be in heaven possibly at the hands of his ethnonationalist brainwashed countrymen. What a stupid wife he's sadly acquired.
It is much harder to live in Ukraine now. So stop your false, german sympathy for nazi, terrorist state of Russia and it's people.
Respect for those Russians. My heart goes out to them.
A wife refusing to leave Russia, knowing full well what awaits her husband if he comes back.
Once he's gone, at least she can say "but they show it differently on TV!"
Don't be quick with conclusions, we don't know the whole story. She might probably have old parents who needs her support and depend on her, or another reason
I Admire These Men For THEIR Bravery To RESIST THIS EVIL CALL TO WAR, VIOLENCE & KILLING FOR AN UNJUST CAUSE & LIES!🙏
What bravery are you talking about. They just ran away because they didn't want to get hurt.
The real brave ones are still in Russia resisting & protesting..
You would be the first one running away.
@@MrBreakingbad What a myopic perspective! Dissent takes many forms!!!
@@persephone1062 Their inaction is costing Ukrainians their lives on a daily basis.. Also again their inaction is making way for a potential nuclear confrontation as the safest way to take Putin down is through an internal russian resistance.. I suggest that you get your Dunning-Kruger checked…
@@MrBreakingbad I could say the same about you (re: the D-K effect)! Do you not realize that there are still too few Russians who feel the way that these young men feel? At this point in the game they would most likely end up like Navalny, or any other of the host of Russian dissidents who have ended up imprisoned, exiled or deceased! Of what use would that be to Russia, or to Ukraine and the rest of the world?
There are still simply too many ordinary Russian citizens who have bought into the Kremlin's decades old propaganda re: the cause of Russia's faded glory that must be restored at all costs, and the West's concerted desire to minimize or extinguish Russia altogether. This was alluded to in the documentary.
The circumstances must be right for any serious challenge to uncompromising autocratic rule to be successful. Russian society as a whole (or even in significant enough numbers) just isn't there yet. It has been reported that many of the young men who have left Russia to avoid the draft have done so out of concern for their own well being, and not out of concern over the immorality of Dictator Tin-Poot's "Special Operation". Many of them are okay w/the state of Russian affairs in general, as long as they aren't directly affected personally.
A friendly reminder; sleep is important .
Oh, my God. Thank you! You're so right. 😴😴😴 Folks without sleep go crazy and then they die.
What a tragic, yet hopeful story. My heart aches for all the Russian citizens who are very much aware of the evil that their country is doing, yet are powerless to stop it. They are possibly the hope for Russia's future!
THEY RISE UP IN 1917 AND KILLED INNOCENT PRINCESSES...SO WHY CAN'T THE PEOPLE OF RUSSIA RISE AGAIN ??? BASICALLY COS THEY CAN'T BE ARSED ..MOST OF THEM REMINISCE ABOUT THE LONG DEAD SOVIET CORRUPT UNION DAYS ...SADLY 🇧🇧🇬🇧
@cici bienc Jesus, can I spread democracy in America?
"their country" is not doing the evil, the authoritarian president and government are, who have usurped the power. A country is not just the government.
"powerless to stop it"
meanwhile Iranians are being executed for being against the regime and still going
@@viktorias63 What is happening in Iran is truly amazing, inspiring and encouraging. It's remarkable that so many Iranians have finally found their voice! I applaud them and pray for their ultimate success, along w/so many others throughout the world!!! 🙏
But Ruzzia is a different story altogether. In that pathetic country most of the ppl sadly support what their government is doing. There simply aren't enough of them who actually see AND care to stop the evil and chaos that Ruzzia is creating.
Some of them have resorted to covert acts of sabotage, and a few to more open subversive acts, but at this point there just aren't enough of them to create a mass movement that could effectively challenge their gov't, as is happening in Iran today! I pray for that day though, when Ruzzia will become like Iran in that respect!!!
Democracy and freedom and justice are human rights no government shouldn’t take away from their citizens 🙏
We have to accept Georgian concerns as the past and ongoing behaviour of the Russians has not exactly connected with civilised behaviour, not just under Putin. The brutality of the Russian army has been shocking.
Calling anyone a "deserter" really prohibits the [good] action resulting in one less Russian soldier. In the Marines we called them "conscientious objector", and I have absolutely no problem with people not wanting to fight a war. War sucks.
It's unfair to call these guys deserters. Even if technically correct, it has a negative stigma. Let's call these guys heroes and hope more are inspired to lay down arms.
laying down what arms? Russian conscripts go to Ukraine then lay down their arms
True, they are not deserters. In most English speaking countries they would be called "Draft Dodgers"..... this term means they avoided conscription to join their armed forces.
I love people who enjoys life, respect life and seek happiness. These people fit that bill.
Lath operator in video will contribute to the economy in Georgia. Skills are always in demand.
PS - Georgia GNP for 2021 was $17.57B, a 10.79% increase from 2020. 2022 looks to be another world leading year of growth.
I'm glad they're hiring.
Not long ago someone told me that everyone is the same. That we are walking on a narrow line and you can be pushed one way and you can become the aggressor.
Life is complex and yes, things can happen to you. But what is also true: you have some say over who you become. I have chosen values and principles. It is also in my hand: what I am willing to do to live by my principles. What is more important to you: be a citizen of your country and do whatever it takes to protect *that* identity or want to be a decent human being. You can do unlawful things that are against basic human rights, you can exploit those who are smaller than you and have less resources, you can silence truth that doesn't serve your interest, you can suppress information that is damaging to your image, etc...
Or you can honor your values as a human being and if you first of all a human being, that is a value you give to others too. Regardless of citizenship, religion and other secondary "identification".
How much you are willing to sacrifice for your principals will make you who you are. No. We are not *all the same* . Some of us have principles, others have their ego that goes above any other value.
Well said my friend
Yes. Robespierre and Hitler were
" men of principle " . According to you we should follow their example ? ! ? Try thinking more clearly before posting long rambling comments !!
@@2msvalkyrie529 America, you respect Biden, Bush, and Obama, and that's enough
@@2msvalkyrie529 I am sorry if that is what you understood when you were reading it. What I believe in:
- Human rights (regardless of religion, race, color, sexuality, economic status, hierarchy/position or whatever ever reason someone finds an excuse to hurt and exploit others)
- Justice (regardless of religion, race, color, sexuality, *economic status*, hierarchy/position or whatever reason someone finds for excuse to hurt and exploit others)
- Free speech (regardless of religion, race, color, sexuality, economic status, hierarchy/position or whatever reason someone finds for excuse to deny it from others. Hurts my feelings is not a valid excuse to shut others off)
I don't think I suggested Hitler was a good example of principles. Sorry if it sounded like that for you! I hope I am clear now.
Anyone trying to say these young people are responsible for their leader isn't thinking of the power Putin has had for almost as long as these young people have been alive so no I definitely feel for them.
Meanwhile, in Iran...
I enjoyed my visit to Tblisi. So many interesting people and places.
Georgia looks cool as shit! Cool vibe!
I hope this documentary doesn't put anybody's life at risk...
Good documentary.
I'd flee Russia just for the cat (3:20)
They are not deserters,they are russian heroes1For standing up for what is right1Good luck to them.
interesting hearing from an ex soldier. thank you
I appreciate you guys
Bravest and smartest Russians. Thankyou for speaking to us. Thank you to Georgia we know it is difficult for you.keep the faith
At 9:40 I feel so bad for him but family is everything. A good friend of mine who lived in Australia recently went back to Russia. Everyone told him not to, begged him.. but he said his family is there and yes he is scared to be conscripted but his girlfriend is there and she takes care of her very sick old parents. She can't leave them alone. So he had to go back. I will pray for this war to end. Every war is a tragedy and this one is no exception I wish very much for all fighting to cease. Pray for him and his family and everyone in Ukraine and Russia. May peace be found sooner than later.
Mature, conscious parents would say to their children to escape to better life, not drag them back to take care of them. Life of young children and their freedom is more precious than old people who are sick and stuck in Russia. Thats my opinion. My opinion is also that children are not obliged to take care of their parents when they are old. This is not to be put on adult children, since this is uneven relationship. Parents hold so much power, becouse of chilren being so dependent on them for so many years. They can mold their children and make them into slaves. Thats unfair.
If you have really good parents, who raised you well, maybe you want to get in touch with them and help them. But mostly its out of obigation and guilt, not love.
Maybe he should of stayed here in Australia 🇦🇺 and trie to change things for the better in Russia and Ukraine 🇺🇦
@@georgepantazis141 And how is he gonna do that from Australia ? Russians can overthrow their government in Russia only. Millions in the streets ready to battle and die. I would do that if my Government did something as crazy as this.
Happy Albanian independent day! 🥳🥳 Caucasus and Balkans stand with ukraine
I love Kosova 🇽🇰
Heartbreaking.....
Bloody good job!! 🥰
They are not deseters, they are conscientious objectors just like the Americans who fled to Canada during the Vietnam Conflict.
Obviously I would prefer that these men rose up against Putin, but I can understand why they leave instead. If they could learn Georgian or English the host nation may be even keener to have them.
Very interesting documentary: these Young People are right: they are very brave! Against thé war: choose between freedom and slavery! Thé People of Georgia have a big heart to help these Young men! chantal Jacobi ( Belgium)
Bravo for you 👏
I hope the deserters are safe.
The are not "deserters." They are merely unwilling to be used as cannon fodder for Putin's idiotic ambitions.
these are brave young men.
Gedaman should stay in Georgia.
The partial mobilization is still ongoing at a low level. It's going to ramp up after Christmas and far more extending then the 1st round. Likely 350k to 400k new blood for cannon fodder.
This is so sad for all concerned.
Thanks to all Russians speaking against this war! Slava Ukrani
They are few. Also, many of them have no idea what Russia has done in Georgia.
@@akoako6512 Because they apolitical.