The Quiet Exodus: When Russian Diplomats Break Ranks
Over the past four years, a slight number of Russian diplomats have defected. Among them, Boris Bondarev is unique: he publicly announced his resignation in May 2022 whereas stationed in Geneva, urging his former colleagues to follow suit. Currently living in Switzerland under protection, Bondarev supports himself through a book published in Germany in 2024, titled “In the Ministry of Lies,” and a weekly analysis blog on Substack.
A Career Spent Witnessing Shifting Policies
Bondarev served in the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs for twenty years, holding positions in Cambodia, Mongolia, and ultimately at the Russian permanent mission to the United Nations Office at Geneva from 2019 until his resignation. His background includes a family history steeped in Soviet-era intellectual life – his father was an economist, his mother an English teacher, and his maternal grandfather a decorated World War II general. He studied at the Moscow State Institute of Foreign Relations during a period he recalls as having more open discourse.
The Breaking Point: February 24th and Beyond
Bondarev’s resignation stemmed from his profound disapproval of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. He stated he had “never been so ashamed of my country” as on February 24th, the date the invasion began. He described the war as a “crime against the Ukrainian people” and a “most heinous crime against the people of Russia.” Prior to his public resignation, he had voiced concerns to senior embassy staff, but was reportedly told to remain silent to avoid repercussions.
Critique of Pragmatism and the Risk of Escalation
Recently, Bondarev has publicly criticized proposals for a negotiated settlement with Ukraine that involve territorial concessions. He specifically challenged the arguments of Fresh York Times columnist Thomas Friedman, who advocated for a “dirty deal” – ceding territory for peace – as a pragmatic approach to avoid a wider conflict. Bondarev, having worked within the Conference on Disarmament at the UN, argues that such compromises only increase the likelihood of future, potentially nuclear, confrontation.
The Challenges of Speaking Out
Despite his efforts to raise awareness, Bondarev notes the difficulty in getting his perspective translated into other languages. He reports that no French publisher has expressed interest in translating his book, “In the Ministry of Lies.”
What Does This Signal About the Future of Russian Diplomacy?
Bondarev’s case, while rare, raises questions about the internal dissent within the Russian diplomatic corps. His willingness to publicly denounce the war, despite the risks, suggests a level of moral conflict among those serving the Russian government. The fact that few others have followed his lead, however, indicates the significant pressures and potential consequences for those who might consider doing so.
The Power Dynamic Within the Ministry
According to Bondarev, colleagues within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs prioritized pleasing superiors over providing accurate information to Moscow. This suggests a hierarchical structure where independent thought and critical analysis are discouraged, potentially hindering effective policymaking.
FAQ
Q: What prompted Boris Bondarev to resign?
A: He resigned in protest of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, stating he was deeply ashamed of his country.
Q: Where is Boris Bondarev now?
A: He is currently living in Switzerland under protection.
Q: What is Bondarev doing now?
A: He is writing a blog on Substack and authored a book, “In the Ministry of Lies,” published in Germany.
Q: Has Bondarev’s book been translated into English or French?
A: It has been published in German, but Bondarev reports no interest from French publishers.
Did you know? Boris Bondarev’s maternal grandfather was a Hero of the Soviet Union during World War II.
Pro Tip: Following Bondarev’s Substack blog can provide unique insights into the internal dynamics of Russian foreign policy.
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