Ukrainian fighter urges Russians to repent for supporting Putin

Ihor Volobuyev, a former chief spokesperson for Gazprom, defected to Ukraine after Russia's full-scale invasion on February 24, 2022. His decision was influenced by his long-standing opposition to the Russian government's actions, particularly following the annexation of Crimea. Volobuyev, who had been transferred to a less influential position within Gazprombank due to his views, felt compelled to leave Russia after receiving support from friends in Ukraine. He successfully exited Russia using his passport with a Schengen visa. Now fighting on the Ukrainian frontline, Volobuyev has adopted a Ukrainian identity, symbolizing his break from his past. He has publicly denounced his Russian citizenship, referring to it as a "passport of slavery and a symbol of fascism," while embracing his new Ukrainian identity as one of dignity and freedom. His experiences on the battlefield have been harrowing, including witnessing the death of a young Belarusian soldier he was assisting. Volobuyev's defection has not gone unnoticed, as Russian authorities have issued a warrant for his arrest. He remains committed to the Ukrainian cause, stating he will serve in the armed forces for as long as he is able. His message to Russians is clear: they will ultimately regret their support for President Putin and the war he has instigated. This situation highlights the personal and political ramifications of the ongoing conflict, as individuals like Volobuyev take a stand against the regime they once served. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities of loyalty, identity, and the fight for freedom in the face of oppression.