Texas Father Who Moved Family to Russia to Flee ‘Woke’ Culture Sent to Ukraine Front Line

A Texas man who moved his family to Russia to escape what he called American “moral decline” has reportedly been deployed to the front lines of the war in Ukraine, a stark turn from the idyllic life he sought. Derek Huffman, 46, relocated with his wife, DeAnna, their three daughters, and their dog from Texas to Istra, a town about 25 miles from Moscow, in March. The family documented their journey on a YouTube channel, explaining their decision to leave the United States.

In videos, the Huffmans explained they were seeking a society with “traditional values.” DeAnna Huffman specifically cited a desire to escape what they called ‘woke’ culture and its influence, including discussions of sexual orientation in schools. They moved to Russia using the country’s “shared values” visa program, which is designed to attract foreigners who align with President Vladimir Putin's promotion of conservative ideology and rejection of what he terms “destructive neoliberal” ideas. Initially, the family’s videos portrayed a positive adjustment to their new life.

However, the family's optimistic journey took a drastic turn in late May. Derek Huffman had reportedly signed a contract with the Russian military, believing he would serve in a non-combat capacity. According to reports, he anticipated working as either a welder or a war correspondent, roles that would utilize his skills without direct combat exposure, as he has no prior military experience. The family’s tone on social media shifted dramatically as their situation changed.

Despite his understanding of the agreement, Huffman found himself deployed to the front lines in Ukraine. The development has left his family in distress, a sharp contrast to the peaceful, conservative haven they had pursued. Their story serves as a cautionary example of the gap between theKremlin's propaganda aimed at attracting Western traditionalists and the stark realities of life in a country engaged in a full-scale war. The family's YouTube channel has since become a chronicle of their unexpected and harrowing ordeal.