A Love That Defied Borders: Sergei & Savelii’s Journey to Freedom and a New Beginning

Sergei and Savelii, a gay couple from Russia, never imagined that their love would take them across continents. In August 2024, they left their home country behind, seeking safety and a future where they could love freely.

“We were forced to leave our home; this wasn’t just a choice, but our only chance to build a life free from government and societal oppression,” Sergei explains. “We were tired of hiding our relationship, living in fear, and constantly looking over our shoulders.”

Arriving in Spain later that month, they immediately applied for asylum, hopeful for a future where their love would no longer be a risk to their safety.

From a Digital Match to Lifelong Partners

Sergei and Savelii’s love story began in November 2020 on a gay dating app.

“At first, we just chatted for a week, but we quickly felt a strong connection and decided to meet in person,” Savelii recalls. “Neither of us really believed something serious could come from a dating app, but here we are, more than four years later, still happily together.”

Their bond was tested as they made the difficult decision to flee their home country. Facing uncertainty and fear, they found strength in each other. “Leaving behind our entire lives — our families, friends, and jobs — was incredibly difficult, and we had no way of knowing if we would succeed,” Sergei recalls. “There was so much fear along the way. Every flight was stressful because we were terrified we might not be allowed to board. And when we finally reached our destination, we spent 24 hours in a Spanish detention center, completely cut off from the outside world. But through it all, we had each other. We comforted one another, reminded ourselves why we were doing this, and kept pushing forward.”

Sergei reflects on how difficult the journey was, one of the hardest challenges they’ve ever faced. But through it all, he says, the experience strengthened their bond and proved that together, they could overcome anything.

Discovering the Joy of Freedom & Building a Home Together

Life in Spain has given them their first taste of true freedom. One moment stands out: “For the first time, we held hands in public,” Savelii shares. “It still felt dangerous, and we were nervous. But we did it. And nothing happened. That was a moment we’ll never forget.”

Another revelation was how easy it is to say, even to strangers, that they are a couple. “People react with kindness and acceptance. It still feels surreal in the best way possible.”

Adjusting to a new country comes with challenges, but Sergei and Savelii have found comfort in small rituals that make their new space feel like home. “We love filling our space with candles, hanging up photo prints of our favorite moments, and starting each day with coffee together,” Sergei says. “It’s simple, but meaningful.”

Though they don’t typically celebrate Valentine’s Day in a traditional way, this year is different. “We’ll be spending the day on a little trip together,” Savelii reveals. “I’m sure it will be a day we’ll remember for a lifetime.”

For them, love is found in everyday moments: watching movies, sharing meals, and exploring new places together.

What Keeps Their Love Growing

For Sergei, it’s Savelii’s endless care and love — the way he instinctively knows how to comfort him. “Every night, he tries to hold me until I fall asleep,” Sergei says. “If I’m feeling down, he never hesitates to do something small but meaningful, like bringing me a treat or taking on some of my responsibilities.” He also admires how easily Savelii connects with people, making friends wherever he goes. “I know I can talk to him about anything, even the hardest things, and he’ll always be there for me.”

Savelii, in turn, loves Sergei’s curiosity and determination. “Watching him explore and learn reminds me that there’s so much in the world to discover, and it’s never too late to try something new,” he shares. Sergei’s persistence is something Savelii deeply admires, especially in moments when he needs encouragement to keep going. He also cherishes their ability to be completely silly together. “I hope we never lose that playfulness, even when we’re old. And, of course, I love hearing him laugh at my jokes.”

Music plays a special role in their relationship, with certain songs instantly bringing back memories of their journey together. For Savelii, All That Mattered by Adiescar Chase holds deep significance. “It’s from Heartstopper, a show that means a lot to me,” he shares. “Just like Nick and Charlie’s story, this song reminds me of everything Sergei and I have been through. More often than not, it takes me back to our happiest moments. When I see the song’s title, I remind myself of what truly matters in life — that as long as I have Sergei, I can get through anything.”

Another song that resonates deeply with Savelii is Million Little Reasons by Oscar Lang. “It captures all the little things I love about Sergei — too many to name, but each one just as important as the next.”

A Message of Hope for Others

Their advice to couples facing challenges? “Always remember that this person chooses you every single day. Hard times are inevitable, but what matters most is how you go through them together. Communicate more. Remind yourselves why you started this journey together in the first place. Remember what made you choose this person. It’s normal to have negative feelings toward your partner sometimes: anger, jealousy, frustration. Love doesn’t erase those emotions; they can coexist. After all, the opposite of love isn’t hate — it’s indifference.”

For those fleeing persecution, their message is clear: “Doubt is normal. Fear is normal. But don’t postpone what you can do today, because you might not get another chance. Everyone’s journey is different, but if you keep moving forward, even through uncertainty, you’ll find your way.”

Gratitude and Looking Forward

Now, in a place where they can dream about the future, Sergei and Savelii feel hopeful.

“As individuals, what gives us hope is finally feeling safe and having the chance to heal. It’s an incredible feeling to be able to dream about the future: to think about studying, working, owning an apartment, buying a car, and traveling the world.

“As a couple, our biggest source of hope is knowing that no matter what happens, we have each other. Of course, there are still difficult days when that hope feels distant. But looking back at our journey, at how we once thought we wouldn’t make it and yet here we are, reminds us that we are capable of more than we ever imagined.”

To those who helped them along the way, their gratitude is immeasurable: “What you have given us is more than just assistance — it’s a chance to build a new life. Your kindness and generosity have not only changed our lives but have also inspired us to give back, to pass on the same light and hope to others.”

For Sergei and Savelii, love is not just about romance — it’s about resilience, courage, and the freedom to build a future together, without fear. 

Love should never be a crime. Yet, around the world, LGBTQI+ couples are forced to flee for their safety. This Valentine’s Day, help more love stories find a safe future. Your donation can provide vital support to those seeking refuge. Donate now.