Tara Reade granted asylum in Russia

Tara Reade, after more than three years of intimidation, harassment, and persecution by both individuals and institutions in the United States due to her allegations against Joe Biden, has been granted asylum in the Russian Federation.

Ms Reade also announced she has received additional intelligence that she would have been detained in Seattle had she not made the decision to remain in Russia.

After careful consideration and evaluation of all options available to her, Ms. Reade made the decision to seek asylum in Russia based on concerns for her personal safety, well-being, and the protection of her rights. She expressed her gratitude for the Russian government's willingness to provide her with a safe haven and ensure her security. Obviously, this was a tremendously difficult and painful decision, but circumstances forced it upon her.

It is essential to clarify that the decision to grant asylum to Ms. Reade is solely based on the assessment of her individual ordeal and the Russian government's commitment to protect those facing potential risks in their home countries. The country's asylum policies adhere to international legal standards and principles, ensuring that those who genuinely require protection are provided with a secure environment. Approval of asylum was not politically motivated and should not be understood as a reflection of current relations between the US and Russia, but rather a reflection of the real risks Tara Reade faces in the United States.

Tara Reade's case has been carefully evaluated by the relevant Russian authorities, who have determined that her claims and the surrounding circumstances warrant the provision of asylum. Anyone who is familiar with what Ms. Reade has endured since going public with her allegations against Joe Biden in 2019, and the threats to her safety today, will recognise that asylum in her case is entirely justified.

Ms. Reade's decision to seek asylum in Russia should not be viewed as an endorsement of the Russian government, of Russian policy, or of Vladimir Putin; nor should it be viewed as an act of disloyalty to her country. Had she been anywhere else in the world when she was alerted of the threats to her safety, Ms. Reade would have appealed for protection wherever she was. She did not choose this situation, she only chose to not remain silent about the abuse and persecution she suffered, and powerful figures in the United States chose to put her in this dilemma as a result.

In the America Tara Reade grew up believing in, the America she worked for as a congressional staffer and campaign worker; she would not be required to keep silent about the abuse of power, about the personal corruption and criminality of political leaders, or about the weaponization of government to persecute critics and whistle-blowers. She would not have to choose between her safety and telling the truth. In the America she believes in, telling truth to power is a public service; it does not make you public enemy number one. She still believes in that America today, but unfortunately, as an aspiration, not a reality.

As Ms. Reade struggles to reconcile with her new environment, we encourage all parties involved to respect her privacy and allow her the space to rebuild her life. We also urge media outlets and the public to consider the broader implications of her case for issues such as accountability, survivor rights, and the importance of fostering a culture that supports open dialogue and meaningful discussions on sensitive matters.

Ms. Reade extends her sincere appreciation to the Russian government for their commitment to providing a safe haven for those in need, and for not politicising her asylum request. We hope, but do not expect, that the United States and the American media will adopt a similarly objective stance.

In conclusion, we reiterate that Tara Reade has sought and been granted asylum in Russia based on her individual circumstances. We hope that her journey towards rebuilding her life can be met with understanding, compassion, and the acknowledgment of the importance of providing a secure environment for those who genuinely require it.