It is increasingly difficult to leave Russia right now, especially for men of an age where military service is expected. Long queues form at border gates, and the sense of upheaval is widespread as people seek ways to exit a country undergoing rapid mobilization. The situation in the South Caucasus stands out as one of the most volatile exit points. Since the partial mobilization was announced by President Vladimir Putin on September 21, thousands have sought refuge beyond Russia’s frontiers. The Georgian interior ministry reports a surge in Russian travelers, adding to the tens of thousands who have fled to Ukraine since the invasion began. Georgia is a common destination due to its proximity, ease of entry, and cultural ties, including a notable number of Georgians who speak Russian.
Encounters at border towns have grown tense. Prices for housing, especially rental apartments, have begun to rise as both locals and newcomers adjust to the sudden influx. On the Russian side, officials have warned that anyone who makes it into a border queue could face bureaucratic or administrative consequences as the situation evolves. The mobilization drives people to seek routes that feel safer or more predictable, even if it means crossing into neighboring territories with limited guarantees of stability.
No visa required
In addition to Russia’s neighbors, Armenia and Azerbaijan have become important destinations for many Russians. The absence of visa requirements and the close connectivity between these Caucasus nations help explain the recent movement. While Baku has not released official numbers, Yerevan confirms that tens of thousands of Russians have arrived since September 21, with numerous arrivals having occurred in the weeks prior. Some estimates place the Russian population in these regions at a notable share of national demographics, highlighting how border policies and cultural ties influence migration flows.
Across Europe, preliminary data from Frontex suggests a substantial increase in Russian arrivals, with tens of thousands entering the European Union through Finland and the Baltic states. Some neighboring countries have warned against accepting new mobilization refugees, prompting a broader discussion about border controls and asylum policies. The sentiment from regional authorities reflects a mix of humanitarian concerns and security considerations as the conflict continues to evolve. The EU and its member states are monitoring these movements to balance humanitarian obligations with national security and immigration governance.
The latest developments at Europe’s borders show a sharp rise in Russian entries over a short period. The majority tend to cross at Finnish and Estonian crossings, where the surge has been most pronounced in recent weeks. Autonomous border agencies have reported the surge may continue in the near term as conflicts persist and mobilization orders spread across regions.
— Frontex, a European border agency, noted the spike in Russian border crossings and the ongoing pressure on frontier points. The organization has stressed the importance of orderly procedures to manage arrivals while ensuring access to protection mechanisms where applicable. The situation remains fluid as countries assess capacity, asylum frameworks, and the economic and social implications of an accelerated influx.
More from the region
Within the broader region, Central Asia has also become a critical corridor. Kazakhstan has registered a substantial number of new entrants. Reporters describe mixed responses from local communities, where some residents offer food and shelter despite limited formal support or lodging. Other neighboring countries have similarly reported notable inflows, with officials noting that additional accommodations are in high demand and hotel vacancies are tightening in capitals such as Tashkent and Dushanbe. In several cases, the influx has coincided with rising rental prices and increased competition for living space.
Meanwhile, Turkey has emerged as a key waypoint for many seeking to relocate or travel onward. Istanbul remains a vital hub with an operating international airport that continues to serve Russian travelers. Foreign media have estimated that thousands of Russians have entered Turkey since the mobilization began. Besides as a transit route, the country is also maintaining its status as a popular destination for tourism and business travel. Beyond Europe, Mongolia has reported a steady stream of arrivals, with many travelers tracing routes from regions near Lake Baikal and the border zones of Mongolia. The dynamics in Central Asia and the Far East reflect a broad pattern of movement tied to accessibility, language, and social networks that ease the transition for those departing.