Anti-War Activist Detained by ICE

Written By Wallie Mason

Russian Anti-War Activist Vladislav Krasnov Detained by ICE;Facing Deportation Despite New Evidence of Danger

LOS ANGELES, CA – Vladislav Krasnov, a prominent Russian anti-war activist and former volunteer for Alexei Navalny, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on February 11, 2026. The detention occurred during a routine check-in and comes at a time when international human rights organizations warn of increased risks for activists returning to Russia.

New Evidence of Political Persecution

While an immigration judge denied Krasnov’s initial asylum claim last year, his legal team points to significant new developments that heighten the threat to his life:

  • International Court Recognition: The European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) recently published a decision finding Krasnov’s prior detention in Russia was both unlawful and politically motivated.

  • Targeted Retaliation: Krasnov is specifically named in the ECHR ruling as a victim of human rights violations, a designation likely to trigger retaliation from Russian authorities.

  • Media Exposure: Recent profiles in international media, including a major Canadian newspaper, have featured Krasnov’s photograph and his direct, public criticism of Vladimir Putin.

The Danger of Deportation

Current reports regarding deportation flights to Russia are grim. According to verified accounts, returnees are being met by armed officers in Moscow. Many face immediate detention or forced conscription into the Russian military to fight in the invasion of Ukraine—a war Krasnov has publicly opposed.

"International tribunals have now confirmed that Mr. Krasnov was unlawfully detained for political reasons," says his attorney, Wallie Mason. "Deporting him now would expose him to imprisonment or forced military service in a war he openly opposes."

Legal Next Steps

The Mason Immigration Law Office is currently filing a Motion to Reopen with the Board of Immigration Appeals. The motion is based on the newly available evidence and the "ineffective assistance" of Krasnov's previous counsel, who has since been disbarred.

Mason is also seeking an Emergency Stay of Removal to ensure Krasnov is not deported while the Board reviews his case.

Wallie Mason

Attorney Wallie Mason has been practicing US Immigration Law for two decades. She has helped many immigrants to obtain Green Cards through Marriage, Family, Business, Asylum, Extraordinary Ability, and other processes that provide a path to US citizenship. Attorney Mason also is a member of the bar of the 9th and 5th Circuit Courts of Appeals.