Russia has denied reports that it is considering preventing its own citizens from renewing passports abroad, a move that could further disadvantage exiled dissidents who have fled political persecution. The independent newspaper Novaya Gazeta claimed to have obtained a copy of a draft Foreign Ministry decree suspending passport renewals and other consular services for Russians abroad starting May 1. However, the consular department of Russia’s Foreign Ministry called the information untrue and provocative, stating that its consular offices and diplomatic missions are committed to openness and informing citizens about planned changes in advance.
Novaya Gazeta had requested a comment from the Foreign Ministry regarding the alleged draft decree before publication, attaching a scan of its written request for comment sent to Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. Additionally, the independent Mediazona news website reported receiving a similar unverified Foreign Ministry document on April 18 from someone claiming to be a Foreign Ministry employee. The sender has not been able to verify their identity and has not logged on to their social media account since. The alleged decree is said to resemble a move made by Russia’s ally, Belarus, in September 2023 to ban citizens from renewing passports abroad, seen as an attempt to force exiled dissidents to return.
It is estimated that anywhere from 700,000 to 1 million Russians have left the country since Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022 and declared a partial mobilization of reservists. However, only 20% of these individuals have been granted temporary residence permits or political asylum. According to UN figures from 2021, approximately 10 million Russians are living abroad. The potential restriction on passport renewals for Russians abroad could further impact exiled dissidents and individuals who have left Russia due to political persecution. The move could present challenges for those seeking to renew their passports and maintain their legal status while living outside of Russia.
The denial by Russia regarding reports of potentially barring its citizens from renewing passports abroad comes amid concerns that such a move could affect exiled dissidents and individuals who have sought refuge outside of the country. The alleged draft decree, if implemented, could have significant implications for Russians living abroad who rely on consular services for various purposes, including passport renewals. The situation is reminiscent of a similar move by Belarus in 2023, which was viewed as an attempt to compel exiled dissidents to return to the country.
There is uncertainty surrounding the authenticity of the alleged Foreign Ministry document shared with Novaya Gazeta and other media outlets, as the identity of the sender has not been verified. The lack of clarity regarding the source of the document raises questions about the credibility of the information and the potential implications for Russians living abroad. The conflicting reports and denials from Russian officials highlight the complexity of the situation and the need for transparency and accurate information regarding any changes to consular services for Russians abroad.
