Alexey Sossinsky, a renowned mathematician, faced exile once more when he left Russia in 2022, disturbed by President Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine. Born in France in 1937 to Russian parents who fled the Bolshevik Revolution, Sossinsky grew up in a mathematically inclined household and studied at Moscow State University. After graduating, he made significant contributions to topology as a researcher at the Steklov Mathematical Institute.
Denied permission to travel abroad for a conference, Sossinsky left Russia in 1973, settling in the United States where he continued research and teaching.
Shocked by Putin’s actions in Ukraine, he left Russia again and now resides in France. His story reflects Russia’s history of exile due to persecution, discrimination, or hardship.
Sossinsky’s future return to Russia remains uncertain amid ongoing conflict, yet he stays optimistic. Despite the challenges, he persists in his work, writing a book on the history of Russian topology, and delivering mathematics lectures worldwide.
Alexey Sossinsky’s life highlights the significance of freedom and mathematics, inspiring courage and dedication. As he remains hopeful about returning to his homeland, his journey stands as a beacon of hope and resilience for us all.
