British Man Receives Russian Citizenship for Fighting in Ukraine

A British man, Ben Stimson, has been awarded Russian citizenship for his involvement in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, specifically in the Donbas region. Stimson, 49, originally from Oldham, has been recognized by Russian authorities for his actions in supporting the Kremlin’s military operations. His situation has sparked significant controversy, especially among former military officials in the UK who have labeled him a “traitor.”

Stimson initially traveled to Russia in 2015 but returned to the UK due to issues related to his passport. After being detained and serving a prison sentence for terrorism offences, he returned to Ukraine following his release. In a significant political move, Maria Butina, a prominent member of the pro-Kremlin party United Russia, played a crucial role in securing Stimson’s Russian passport. She stated, “Ben has already proven his love and loyalty to Russia, his empathy for the residents of the new territories,” referring to the areas of Ukraine under Russian control.

Stimson has been reportedly training African recruits in the conflict zone. His activities have raised alarms among former military personnel in the UK. Colonel Richard Kemp, a former commander in the British Army, condemned Stimson’s actions, calling them disgraceful. He said, “They are traitors who upon their return to the UK should be arrested and jailed.”

The implications of Stimson’s actions extend beyond his personal choices. His case has drawn attention to the involvement of foreign nationals in the conflict. Reports indicate that another British fighter, Aiden Minnis, aged 39, has gone missing, sparking concerns among those close to him. Stimson has publicly expressed his worry, stating, “Worried about my comrade Aiden Minnis. He’s not been seen for a week. I pray all is OK.” Despite initial fears for Minnis’s safety, Stimson later reassured followers that his comrade is “alive and well.”

Butina, who previously served time in a U.S. prison for espionage, has been a vocal supporter of Stimson’s citizenship status. She indicated that the leadership of United Russia backed the decision to grant him citizenship, emphasizing the support he received from the Russian government. Notably, Butina was arrested in the U.S. in July 2018 on charges of conspiring to act as a foreign agent, ultimately being deported to Russia in October 2019.

Stimson’s past is complex; he was sentenced to five years and four months in 2017 at Manchester Crown Court after returning to the UK. His father, Martin Stimson, reportedly disowned him for joining the fight for Putin, highlighting the personal and familial rifts caused by his actions.

As the conflict in Ukraine continues, Stimson’s case underscores the controversial nature of foreign involvement in the war. His story reflects broader geopolitical tensions and raises questions about loyalty, identity, and the consequences of taking sides in international conflicts. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing developments likely to attract further scrutiny from both the British government and international observers.