American's "Traditional Values" Quest Leads to Frontline Deployment in Russia

Derek Huffman, a 46-year-old Texan, relocated to Moscow seeking "traditional values." He enlisted in the Russian military with the understanding that he would not be deployed in a combat role, hoping to gain citizenship. The family settled in a village outside Moscow, established by an American blogger, which caters to families seeking to escape what it describes as "liberal gender norms" and "LGBTQ+ 'indoctrination'" in the United States.

Initially promised a role as a war correspondent and vehicle mechanic, Huffman received accelerated combat training and is now slated for frontline deployment. His wife, DeAnna, expressed that her husband feels betrayed and is relying on his faith. She stated that he was initially informed he would receive only two weeks of training before being sent to the front lines. Now, he is expected to receive one more week of training before deployment.

In a video recorded last month, Derek explained that his decision to join the military was motivated by a signing bonus and a desire to prove his worth to his new country. He hoped to demonstrate that he and his family deserved to be in Russia. The Huffmans utilized Russia’s "Shared Values" visa program, which allows foreigners who disagree with their governments to apply for residency if they share the Kremlin’s moral and spiritual values. The family has documented their move on social media and has relied on crowdfunding since emigrating.

The family's idealized vision of life in Russia and military service has been disrupted by reality. Derek and his fellow soldiers were required to pay a significant portion of their monthly salary for their own supplies. DeAnna also reported that her husband did not receive any pay or bonus after his first month of service. Derek's experience echoes that of other Americans who have found that the Kremlin's promises are often broken.