Russians Flee Country Amid Ukraine War Draft Fears and Loss of Freedoms
A growing number of Russians are reportedly fleeing their country due to concerns over a potential new military draft for the Ukraine war and increasing restrictions on freedoms. While not as large as the exodus in 2022, a group assisting citizens who flee abroad, Kovcheg, reported an almost eightfold increase in queries last month compared to May. Social media videos indicate individuals are leaving for war-related reasons, declining economic conditions, an uncertain future, and shrinking freedoms. Ukrainian officials, including President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, have suggested Russia is planning another mobilization, a claim the Kremlin denies. Human rights activists describe a 'panicked wave' of emigration since mid-July, linked to mobilization fears, a fuel crisis, and internet restrictions. Some individuals are seeking to avoid military service, with one digital content marketer stating this was his second attempt to emigrate to avoid a draft, despite a hip ailment that would typically exempt him. Others ...
