Ildar Dadin, a prominent Russian opposition activist, has been killed while fighting for Ukraine, as confirmed by the group that recruited him, the Civic Council. Known for his vocal opposition to the Kremlin and his history of peaceful protests in Russia, Dadin joined the Freedom of Russia Legion, a volunteer battalion fighting against Russian forces in Ukraine. He was reportedly killed by Russian artillery fire in the Kharkiv region.
Dadin became known in Russia for his persistence in holding peaceful protests despite increasing political repression. He was the first person prosecuted under the controversial 2014 law, “Dadin’s Law,” which criminalized repeat violations of protest regulations. His activism led to a 2.5-year prison sentence, during which he was tortured, an experience that nearly broke him.
Upon his release in 2017, Dadin continued to speak out against the Russian regime. In 2023, he joined the Ukrainian Armed Forces, believing he could no longer stand by and witness the atrocities committed by Russian forces. Despite identifying as a pacifist, he felt compelled to fight against the aggression, mass killings, and other crimes he witnessed.
Dadin fought alongside other Russian citizens in the Freedom of Russia Legion, which is part of the Ukrainian military. He expressed disappointment in some military operations, describing them as “pointless,” but remained committed to his cause. His callsign, “Gandhi,” reflected his deep moral convictions, even as he took up arms.
Dadin’s death has been confirmed by fellow soldiers, though official details remain scarce due to ongoing military operations. The Civic Council paid tribute to him, calling him strong, brave, and principled, encouraging people to remember him as a hero who stood by his beliefs until the end.