Kremlin Critic Yashin Founds 'Peaceful Russia' Party in Exile

Ilya Yashin, a prominent critic of the Kremlin, has established a new political party named "Peaceful Russia" from exile. The party's stated mission is to represent the genuine interests of Russia, a stark contrast to the current leadership's agenda. These interests, according to the party, include the withdrawal of Russian forces from Ukraine, an end to imperialism, and the establishment of human and freedom rights, alongside the creation of a just society.

Yashin himself was elected as the party's chairman. Olga Podolskaya, a former regional parliamentarian, will serve as his deputy. Yashin's own journey included a period of imprisonment in Russia before his release in 2024 during a significant prisoner exchange between Russia and Western nations. This move comes at a time when the Russian opposition in exile remains fractured and divided.

The founding congress saw participation from notable figures such as Leonid Volkov of the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK), founded by the late Alexei Navalny, and Marat Gelman of the Russian Anti-War Committee. Another focal point for opposition unity is a dialogue platform initiated by the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. The human rights and educational activities of the banned Russian movement "Memorial" are also continuing in exile.

“

These interests include withdrawing troops from Ukraine and abandoning imperialism, ensuring human and freedom rights, and building a just society.