Panic, bribes, ditched cars and a dash on foot: Portraits of flight from Russia

The article provides a detailed account of Russians fleeing the country to avoid conscription following President Vladimir Putin's draft order. It highlights the personal stories of various individuals who bribed their way through police checkpoints, abandoned their cars, and crossed the border on foot to escape the draft. The narratives reflect their opposition to the war in Ukraine, fear of being trapped in Russia, and the emotional and financial toll of their journey. The article underscores the divided opinions within Russian families about the war and the oppressive measures taken by the Kremlin.

Discreetly, and at peril, Russian volunteers help Ukrainian refugees

Thousands of displaced Ukrainians in Russia rely on a discreet network of unofficial volunteers to reach safety in Europe. These volunteers, facing significant risks from Russian security forces, provide essential aid and transportation. The Russian government has cracked down on civil society, targeting both official and unofficial volunteer groups. Volunteers like Veronika Timakina and Irina Gurskaya have faced persecution for their efforts. Despite the dangers, these volunteers continue their work, driven by a sense of duty and hope for a better future.

Discreetly, and at Peril, Russian Volunteers Help Ukrainian Refugees

Russian volunteers are discreetly aiding Ukrainian refugees in Russia, forming an unofficial network reminiscent of the Underground Railroad. These volunteers face significant risks from Russian security forces, who are suspicious of citizen initiatives. The volunteers provide essential services, such as transportation and supplies, to help refugees reach safety in Europe. Official volunteer groups, aligned with the Russian government, offer limited aid and promote Russian citizenship, complicating refugees' journeys. Some volunteers have faced persecution, leading them to flee Russia. Despite the dangers, these volunteers continue their efforts, driven by a sense of duty and hope for a better future.

Panic, Bribes, Ditched Cars and a Dash on Foot: Portraits of Flight From Russia

Amidst President Vladimir V. Putin's recent draft order to bolster the Russian army, over 200,000 Russians, primarily young men, have fled the country. Many have endured long drives, bribed police, and crossed the border on foot to escape conscription. The Kremlin has intensified border controls to prevent draft-eligible men from leaving. Photographer Ksenia Ivanova documented the stories of these individuals, highlighting their fears, divided families, and opposition to the war in Ukraine.

At least 150,000 Leave Russia After Putin Announced Partial Military Mobilization

At least 200,000 Russians have fled the country following President Vladimir V. Putin's announcement of a partial military mobilization, aimed at conscripting up to 300,000 civilians. The exodus, marked by long lines at border checkpoints and protests, highlights widespread discontent with Putin's policy. Neighboring countries like Kazakhstan and Georgia have reported significant increases in Russian arrivals. The mobilization follows setbacks in Russia's war with Ukraine, and while the departures are notable, they may not hinder the Kremlin's conscription goals.

Made photo story for The Washington Post about The World Cup fans on the Trans-Siberian Railway in Russia.

For The Washington Post made photos and video of the ballet dancers of the Mikhailovsky Theater in self-isolation in St. Petersburg: incredible Andrea Lassakova and Adrian Blake Mitchell, who are in love with each other and in Russian ballet.

In Putin’s Standoff With Navalny, Many Russians Put Faith in President

The article discusses the anticipated protests in various Russian cities in support of the jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Navalny has become a central figure in rallying public dissatisfaction with President Vladimir Putin's extended tenure in power. While Navalny's efforts have sparked a significant protest movement, the article also notes that Putin retains a substantial base of support among the Russian populace. This support is attributed to a combination of trust in Putin's leadership, fear of the unknown regarding political change, and disapproval of Navalny and his methods.

Made photos and text with Kyrre Lien about the production and distribution of the Russian vaccine Sputnik V for the Verdens Gang. Despite the high numbers of daily new coronavirus cases, the majority of Russians are still reluctant to get vaccinated.