In this interview with Rudi Friedrich, executive director of the association “Connection e.V”., conducted by our editor Peter Birke, the two discuss the consequences of the war in Ukraine and in particular the role conscientious objectors can play in the struggle against war. They also discuss whether mass desertion on both sides of the front can create the conditions for depriving the warmongers of their power. Flight from conscription and asylum for deserters are major issues being discussed. The interview has been conducted in December 2022 and constitutes the second of three planned texts about perspectives on the current war in Europe “from below”.