Russians Flee Abroad Amid Mobilization Fears and Freedom Concerns
Russians flee abroad citing fears of mobilization, internet restrictions, and loss of freedom. Growing exodus as tensions rise.
POLICY WIRE — Tbilisi, Georgia — Russians are leaving the country in increasing numbers this summer, driven by fears of a new military mobilization, internet restrictions, and a fuel crisis. A 28-year-old digital content marketer recently fled to Georgia, stating that ‘you never know what will happen tomorrow.’ A coordinator for a group aiding Russians in settling abroad noted a surge in inquiries since mid-July.
The exodus is not as large as in 2022, when hundreds of thousands fled following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. However, a group assisting citizens who leave the country reported nearly eight times more queries last month than in May. Social media videos from across Russia show people expressing their intent to leave due to war-related reasons, economic decline, and shrinking freedoms.
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Russian President Vladimir Putin has denied claims of a new mobilization, but Ukrainian officials suggest otherwise. Some emigres, like a young woman fearing her husband might be drafted, have cited these concerns as reasons for leaving. Others, like queer activist Daniil Neonov, left after facing legal troubles related to the government’s crackdown on LGBTQ+ rights. The digital content marketer, who previously left Russia in 2022, returned in 2025 but found it increasingly difficult to work due to internet restrictions.
Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)
