Dissidents speak out from Lithuania after fleeing Putin's Russia
Putin set to win Russian election as Russian exiles in Vilnius fight for democracy.
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read
Vladimir Putin is set to win the Russian election, continuing his 24-year reign. Many of his challengers have faced tragic fates. Amid Putin’s crackdown on dissent, brave Russians are fighting for democracy from outside the country, particularly in Vilnius, Lithuania. There, over 2,500 Russian exiles have found shelter. Individuals like Anastasia Shevchenko and Sergei Davidis fled Russia due to oppressive conditions, including surveillance and arrests for speaking out against the government. Lithuanian stations are providing a platform for truth-telling to Russians, despite fears of Russian interference. Dissidents face risks, as seen with attacks like the recent one on Leonid Volkov. Putin’s re-election brings both continued support and challenges due to significant troop losses and economic issues. Anastasia Shevchenko, now in Vilnius, strives for an open Russia while helping political prisoners and advocating for change.