Kathrine Frich
What motivated him to do so remains unclear, but what’s certain is that he now wants out.
What motivated him to do so remains unclear, but what’s certain is that he now wants out.
Desperately Begging for Help
A Czech man who voluntarily enlisted in Russia’s military is now pleading for protection from the very government he left behind.
His story has sparked outrage and a chilling warning from Czech officials: Do not go to Russia.
From Czech Citizen to Kremlin Recruit
The unidentified man traveled to Russia, where he signed a contract to serve in Vladimir Putin’s army, becoming, in effect, a soldier for the aggressor in the war on Ukraine.
What motivated him to do so remains unclear, but what’s certain is that he now wants out.
“Don’t Even Imagine What He’s Done”
Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky issued a blunt and emotional statement:
“I don’t even want to imagine what horrors he had to commit. Now he is desperately begging for help and protection.”
He shared the message on social media, urging Czechs to see this as a cautionary tale.
“Russia Cannot Be Trusted”
Lipavsky’s statement didn’t mince words.
He reminded citizens that the Czech embassy can do very little for those who willingly enter Russia and find themselves in trouble. The man’s plea for help may have come too late.
Trapped in Enemy Territory
According to Daniel Drake, a spokesman for the Czech Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the man is still in Russia and seeking to be released from his military obligations. The ministry says it’s working “in accordance with Czech law and the Vienna Convention,” but their options are limited.
Serving in a Foreign Army Without Approval
Czech law prohibits joining a foreign military without official permission, unless it’s part of a defensive alliance.
While President Petr Pavel has granted exceptions for Czechs fighting with Ukraine’s armed forces, joining Russia’s military is another story entirely.
Official Permission Needed Or Face Criminal Charges
Without presidential consent, serving in a foreign military is illegal under Czech law. Offenders could face criminal prosecution, though amnesty is possible in special cases. But for this man, the process would be lengthy, and his current location in Russia complicates matters.
The Minister’s Final Message: Let This Be a Warning
Lipavsky’s parting words were clear and chilling:
“Let this story be a warning to everyone. Russia cannot be trusted.”
For the man stuck inside Putin’s war machine, that warning has come far too late.