German Sterligov was born in Zagorsk (today Sergiyev Posad), Russian SFSR, Soviet Union.

[2][8] He also founded a housing commune for farmers and artisans while providing free social and medical services.

[6][11] After settling in Nagorno-Karabakh, Sterligov announced plans to start a farming business and stated that his wife would open a designer store.

As of August 2015, Sterligov's family was back in Russia, while he himself was unable to return due to being wanted by Interpol on Azerbaijan's demand.

In a statement he stated "International police does not search the people wanted for political motives since it contradicts the statute.

"[14] Sterligov ran in the 2004 Russian presidential election, but ultimately failed to become a registered candidate.