Aleksandr Babkov, a 53-year-old fighter awarded multiple Russian state honors for his service in the Special Military Operation (SVO), faces potential extradition to Uzbekistan where he is wanted for participating in the conflict. Despite receiving commendations such as the medal 'For Courage' and others linked to significant battles, Babkov struggles to obtain Russian citizenship due to bureaucratic hurdles and his affiliation with the Wagner Private Military Company (PMC). His current legal status is precarious as he fears deportation back to Uzbekistan, where he could face severe penalties for his involvement in the SVO. Babkov's application for a temporary residence permit is pending, with the Sverdlovsk regional government and the Ministry of Defense considering his case for citizenship on an exceptional basis. Meanwhile, he has secured employment in a fire and rescue unit in Russia, but lacks the veteran's certificate necessary for additional benefits, complicating his situation further.
- Babkov's situation highlights the complexities faced by foreign fighters returning to Russia after participating in the SVO. His journey began in Uzbekistan, where he was born to a Russian family, and he subsequently moved to Russia to enlist with the Wagner PMC. The Russian government's policy, which allows for expedited citizenship for soldiers with special merits, puts Babkov in a unique position given his state awards. However, the legal implications of his past actions in Uzbekistan create a challenging environment as he navigates his future in Russia. His concerns about being on a wanted list in Uzbekistan, coupled with the lack of citizenship, underscore the precarious balance of his current existence. Babkov's case may serve as a pivotal example of the broader issues surrounding citizenship, military service, and the consequences of international conflicts on individual lives.
