A Texas father who moved his entire family to Russia to escape what he called “woke America” has reportedly been deployed to the front lines of the Ukraine war after initially being promised a non-combat role.
The family says they have not heard from him in over a month and are now appealing for help, per reports.
Derek Huffman, 46, relocated with his wife DeAnna, their three daughters and the family dog earlier this year from Texas to Istra, a small town outside of Moscow.
Mr. Huffman had publicly expressed frustration over what he described as progressive teachings in American schools and said he sought a better environment for his family.
The family moved under a Kremlin-sponsored visa initiative designed to attract disaffected Westerners.
Huffman called it “a fresh start in a country that respects family values,” according to previous statements he gave to Russian media.
After arriving in Russia, Huffman joined a program that offered foreigners a path to integration by volunteering for military service.
He was reportedly told that he would serve in a non-combat capacity.
First, he was told he would work as a welder.
Later, the role shifted to that of a war correspondent.
His wife,