Russian nationals seek asylum

Eight Russian nationals arrived days ago in Mexicali seeking asylum in the United States.

La Voz newspaper reported that the group has been housed at the Alfa y Omega shelter since their arrival.

There, they wait for an appointment in order to gain entry to California.

One if the immigrants, Vladimir Kuznetzov, 26, told reporters he has fled the country ruled for two decades by Vladimir Putin due to repression and militarization.

The young man said he left Russia alone, leaving his parents and siblings behind.

“When we leave the country, we are considered traitors,” Kuznetzov said.

Although limited in English and Spanish the Russians have been able to communicate here with others through a translating device.

Kuznetzov said he used to have a limousine business but that was ruined due to government policies and recent constitutional amendments. This, in turn, has forced him out of the former Socialist Soviet Republic.

Shelter manager Thomas Diosdado told El Imparcial news website that most of the Russians are between 35 and 45 years of age and are technology professionals.

Although people think of Russia as a developed country, Diosdado said the immigrants had painted a different picture — one portraying poverty, lack of opportunities and repression.

The shelter manager said that in order to provide proper services to the Russians, additional showers are under construction. However, due to lack of support from public agencies, shelter administration needs to build them as soon as possible.