Russian activist's £22 donation to Ukrainian army helps him win UK asylum appeal
A Russian anti-Kremlin activist has won an appeal to remain in the United Kingdom after an immigration tribunal ruled that his political activities, including a £22 ($29) donation to the Ukrainian army, could put him at risk of persecution if deported to Russia, The Telegraph reported on Nov. 9.
The man, identified only as AD, entered Britain on a work visa in April 2022 and applied for asylum in June 2023. His application was initially rejected, but he later won his case before the Upper Tribunal.
AD had participated in anti-Putin and pro-Ukraine demonstrations, helped produce videos criticizing the Russian government and donated £22 in Bitcoin to a Ukrainian military fundraiser.
Although the donation could not be directly traced to him, the tribunal found that he could not be expected to lie about it if questioned by Russian authorities.
Judge Leonie Hirst ruled that his political activities, particularly his participation in demonstrations in Britain, created a real risk of detention and prosecution upon his return to Russia.
The donation was one of several factors considered by the tribunal, rather than the sole reason for its decision.