Russians flee abroad amid mobilization fears and loss of freedoms

A growing number of Russian citizens are preparing to emigrate or are already fleeing the country due to fears of a new military mobilization, economic instability, and increasing restrictions on civil liberties.

Key drivers for this movement include rumors of a fresh troop draft for the ongoing war with Ukraine, a fuel crisis triggered by Ukrainian drone attacks, and government-imposed internet restrictions. While the exodus is not currently reaching the massive scale seen in 2022, the organization Kovcheg reported that inquiries from citizens seeking help to flee abroad increased nearly eightfold in recent months compared to May.

Many Russians are looking toward visa-free destinations such as Georgia, Armenia, Kazakhstan, and Turkey. While there are currently no significant queues at border crossings, social media activity indicates a rise in anxiety regarding the political situation, the loss of freedom of speech, and the potential for forced conscription of young people and students.