Sounds almost like he self-immolated. Russia is not such a bad place after all, for people with cash, and as a good professional he will certainly get some, and will enjoy celebrity status, and KGB will care for him rather than scare him.
And what I think should stands as the most important for people of your country... Good bye America.
Yep, sounds like he sacrificed his life. Sure, he can build a new one. But his last one? Pretty much destroyed.
Imagine you have to dump your loved one (against your wishes).
Of course, it's better for him to stay in Russia then going to Equador as he planned, at least he will get a good job there. Certainly he will dislike St. Petersburg climate when the winter falls (very cold and humid), but there are places with decent climate and still good jobs.