My friends Sasha & Nikita Smirnov (psuedonym for security), are trying to flee the tyranny of their government and secure residency outside of Russia. They have never supported their government and do not support the invasion of Ukraine. They both have relatives in eastern Ukraine, and fear persecution for opposing the war.
Since the start of the war on February 24th, their lives have been turned upside-down, and their stability and freedom in Russia erodes more every day. They have lost loved ones on both sides of this unwanted conflict. As the war continues and the death toll rises, all Sasha and Nikita can do is wait and hope they don't fall victim to the violence of Putin's reign before they can escape.
As it stands, they could face up to 15 years imprisonment for simply referring to the conflict as a "war" and advocating for an end to the violence. Despite being newly married and settled-down, the couple is willing to leave their entire lives behind - including their cat and dog - to lessen their economic burden abroad in their escape to a freer country.
Please help my friends break free from the terror that their president has brought upon his own people. There is no future for them in Russia until the regime changes. Before then, they simply hope to avoid jail time and continue advocating against the regime as soon as they can do so safely.
Right now, they are awaiting the financial support that will enable them to leave Russia for good. Their plan includes resettling in the country of Georgia, the United States, or anywhere that will grant them refuge. Unfortunately, due to the devaluation of the Russian currency, their limited savings will dry up very quickly upon leaving Russia.
They currently have enough money saved to physically leave the country and reasonably survive for one week abroad. For a stable situation, they will need enough to sustain themselves for upwards of 3 months, depending on the living situation they can secure abroad. They have estimated their costs at $7000, but absolutely any amount will be a great help.
They need to obtain the finances that will ensure a safe passage so they can leave as soon as possible. Please restore the peace and freedom of my friends. Any donations are sincerely appreciated by Sasha, Nikita, their family, and their friends.
In lieu of this fundraiser, I can also accept donations on Venmo at @PetyaDaven, Cashapp at $PetyaDaven, or PayPal at ptropnevad2@yahoo.com. All proceeds will go via me personally but directly to Sasha & Nikita for their resettlement costs, including transportation, rent/lodging, and food.
Thank you for taking your time and supporting this cause. It means the world to me and my friends.
