Texas Family Relocates to Russia Seeking Traditional Values

A Texas family has moved to Russia in search of what they describe as traditional values, leaving behind concerns about American culture and its influence on their children. Derek and DeAnna Huffman, along with their three daughters, departed from Humble, a suburb of Houston, earlier this year. Their journey, which they document on a YouTube channel, has garnered significant attention, particularly after it was revealed that Derek was deployed to the front lines of Russia’s ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The Huffmans settled just outside Moscow, where they have embraced their new environment. DeAnna recently shared in a video that Derek was sent to fight in the war, expressing concerns for his safety. “He feels like he’s being thrown to the wolves right now, and he’s kind of having to lean on faith,” she stated, noting that he does not speak Russian and had yet to receive military pay.

According to updates from their YouTube channel, Derek Huffman enjoyed a two-week home leave from the Russian army this fall. In a video posted in late October, he was seen signing documents for Russian citizenship, a process expedited by his military service. He mentioned plans for his wife and daughters to apply for citizenship shortly. “I’m happy that I’m still alive and doing what I can to survive, and be of service to Russia,” he expressed, thanking the Russian people for their support during his deployment.

The Huffmans’ experiences highlight a growing trend of what some are calling “ideological immigrants.” These families, seeking refuge from what they perceive as a deteriorating cultural landscape in the United States, are choosing to relocate to Russia. Another Texas family, the Hares from Abilene, made a similar move, citing a desire to protect their children from what they view as indoctrination regarding LGBTQ rights.

Russia has enacted a series of laws that restrict LGBTQ expressions, including the prohibition of public displays of LGBTQ identity. In 2024, President Vladimir Putin signed a decree establishing a “shared values” visa, aimed at individuals from countries deemed unfriendly to Russia, including the United States and much of Europe. This visa offers humanitarian support and residency to those who align with Russia’s traditional values.

In a video interview with a Russian state media outlet, Derek Huffman articulated his family’s reasons for leaving the United States. He criticized the perceived erosion of religious values and social safety in American cities, stating, “They want to take God out of everything. It’s very dangerous for children, especially in the big cities. A lot of crime, homelessness, drugs. We wanted a safe place to raise our children.”

As the conflict in Ukraine continues, the consequences for military personnel and their families remain severe. Reports indicate that approximately 1 million Russian soldiers have been either killed or injured since the onset of the invasion in 2022, with casualties estimated at around 250,000. Ukrainian forces have also suffered substantial losses, with around 400,000 troops reported as killed or wounded.

In a video posted in November, Derek Huffman mentioned his return to service, stating that he would be away for another six months. “I miss my girls and wife so much,” he lamented, adding that he even misses the family dog. His sentiments reflect the challenging reality faced by those caught in the crossfire of geopolitical conflicts.

The Huffmans’ story serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities surrounding migration and the personal choices that families make in pursuit of a better life, often amidst broader societal upheavals. Their journey continues to unfold, with their YouTube channel serving as a window into their new life in Russia, showcasing moments of family bonding, cultural exploration, and the realities of their decision to leave Texas behind.