January 24, 2026
Germany denies asylum to Russian deserter, citing ex-Defense Minister Shoigu’s claim that mobilization had “ended”
Germany’s Federal Office for Migration and Refugees (BAMF) has denied asylum to a Russian man who was mobilized into the armed forces, fled from the front, and was tortured after being detained
TL;DR
- Germany's BAMF denied asylum to Russian man Georgy Avaliani, who fled mobilization and alleged torture.
- The denial was based on a verbal statement by ex-Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu that Russia's "partial" mobilization had ended.
- Avaliani claims he was detained, tortured with electric shocks, and subjected to mock executions in a "torture basement."
- The BAMF questioned the existence of such facilities and suggested Avaliani would only face a small fine upon return.
- An antiwar association reported the decision, calling it incompetent and a boilerplate response for draft dodgers.
- Avaliani plans to seek a review of the decision.