US Prepares to Deport Russian Dissident Alexander Bolokhoev to Russia Amid Torture Fears

Activist Detained by ICE

Alexander Bolokhoev, a Russian activist and co-founder of a Buryat independence movement, has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and faces potential deportation back to the Russian Federation. Bolokhoev, a Buryat Mongol, arrived in the United States in April 2022 seeking political asylum, having left Russia in 2021. He has since worked as a truck driver and participated in anti-war protests.

His detention by ICE in Oklahoma was reportedly not connected to his activism but occurred during an anti-immigrant 'dragnet.' Despite possessing legal papers and a work permit, his status and a possible court decision on deportation remain unknown.

Advocacy for Buryat Independence

Bolokhoev is a prominent figure in the 'Tusgaar Buryaad–Mongolia' (Independent Buryat-Mongolia) movement, which advocates for the independence of Buryatia from the Russian Federation. He has been instrumental in organizing Buryat political organizations in New York and joined the Buryat Independence Committee.

The Russian authorities officially banned the 'Tusgaar Buryaad–Mongolia' movement in 2023, classifying it as a 'terrorist and extremist' organization. This designation places Bolokhoev at significant risk should he be returned to Russia.

Grave Risks Upon Return to Russia

Concerns for Bolokhoev's safety are high. Marina Khankhalaeva, a co-founder of the 'Tusgaar Buryaad–Mongolia' movement, has warned that if Bolokhoev is deported to Russia, he could face 'imprisonment or death' due to his outspoken position and involvement with the banned organization.

This potential deportation follows a pattern where other Russian dissidents sent back by the U.S. have faced immediate arrest and charges. For instance, in July 2025, activist Leonid Melekhin was deported and subsequently arrested in Russia on charges of 'justifying terrorism.' Similarly, Artyom Vovchenko, a Russian deserter, was deported and apprehended upon arrival in Moscow, with his whereabouts since unknown.

Uncertain Future for Asylum Seekers

Bolokhoev's case highlights the precarious situation faced by Russian asylum seekers in the U.S. who have actively opposed the Russian government. The U.S. has seen an increase in deportations of Russian asylum seekers whose cases have been denied. The outcome of Bolokhoev's situation is being closely watched by human rights advocates and those concerned about the safety of political dissidents.