American Family’s Move to Russia Takes a Dark Turn as Father Joins putin’s Army
MOSCOW – A texas family who publicly documented their relocation to Russia seeking an escape from perceived “wokeness” in the United States is now facing a starkly different reality, with the father, Derek Huffman, having obtained Russian citizenship and joining the Russian military. The family’s journey, initially chronicled on their youtube channel “Huffman Time,” has taken an unexpected and perilous turn as Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine intensifies.
The Huffmans – derek, his wife DeAnna, and their two daughters – announced their move to Russia in late 2022, citing dissatisfaction with the direction of the united States and a desire for a more traditional lifestyle. The family’s decision, and subsequent online documentation of their experiences, quickly drew attention, becoming a focal point in debates about American expatriation and perceptions of life in Russia. now, Derek Huffman’s embrace of Russian citizenship and military service underscores the complex and perhaps dangerous consequences of seeking refuge in a country embroiled in international conflict.
According to a recent report, DeAnna Huffman commutes three hours daily for work, while the couple’s daughters have enrolled in a Russian private school since September.Derek Huffman has expressed pride in his new citizenship and service in the Russian army, stating, “I don’t understand all this hatred. If you’ve never been here, you don’t know.” He anticipates being called to join his unit soon.
The family’s story raises questions about the motivations and realities faced by Americans choosing to relocate to Russia, especially in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine and increasingly strained relations between the two countries. While Huffman asserts his family is happy, safe, and benefiting from a better education and lower cost of living, the situation carries significant risk, as evidenced by his impending deployment to the front lines.
