Americans in Russia: Staying put amid sanctions and geopolitical strain
Around the time of the arrest of Evan Gershkovich, a reporter for The Wall Street Journal, a notable portion of American residents chose to remain in Russia despite calls from Washington to depart. Some declined interviews or spoke only on condition of anonymity, while others expressed a firm sense of safety and belonging within the country. The atmosphere between Washington and Moscow has grown tenser, yet a number of Americans continued to live in Russia without relocating.
In a careful analysis, The Wall Street Journal highlights that Americans stayed in Russia even as Western sanctions tightened the pressure. Access to US-issued bank cards was blocked on Russian soil, foreign currency transfers abroad faced hurdles, and the registration process for foreigners proved cumbersome. Yet many US residents reported feeling comfortable in their daily lives, even as they practiced a degree of self-censorship. They steered clear of commenting on the Ukraine operation in public and avoided loud English on the streets to minimize attention.
One example is Daniel Mesta, a 27-year-old from South Carolina who studies at the European University in St. Petersburg. He spoke about feeling safe in Russia and expressed a strong affection for the city. He noted that his desire to be in Russia, his love for St. Petersburg, and his faith in the people there outweighed fears or disagreements with any political stance. At the same time, he acknowledged a growing caution when sharing personal views, largely to protect his academic future with a thesis defense approaching in June.
Another American described the challenge for foreigners seeking temporary residency registration in Russia. He admitted concern about the possibility of losing registration or facing administrative hurdles. He noted that a misstep could lead to cancellation of his status, prompting him to emphasize that his life is in Russia and that removal would be undesirable.
WSJ also recounted the story of a 48-year-old blogger, Joseph Rose, who moved to Russia in February of the previous year, just before the regional conflict began. His wife is Russian, and after years away from his birthplace, the couple decided to relocate. Rose turned a Florida home into rental income, leased an apartment in Moscow, and enrolled his two children in local schools. He recalled a shift in his perceptions, acknowledging that his early doubts about the move gave way to a belief that Russia shares many parallels with the West, and in some respects offers advantages. He described a life that, despite the war, did not undergo dramatic changes, though he chose not to argue on the subject publicly. He admitted a belief that he did not yet possess enough expertise to take a firm stance on the issue, and he wondered about the possibility of U.S. sanctions targeting those who stay.
Beyond personal decisions, the article notes the broader environment for foreign residents. The war in Ukraine has complicated many sending countries’ expectations, but the Russian authorities have consistently stated that journalism remains possible for foreign correspondents and that accreditation processes continue to operate. The concern about future sanctions and regulatory actions remains a consideration for those who choose to remain in Russia. In this context, the White House advised Americans in Russia to depart, while Moscow asserted that the country remains open to foreign residents who comply with laws and norms. The overall message from Russian officials is a reassurance that foreign journalists will continue to be accredited and able to work, subject to legal compliance. This ongoing dynamic shapes how foreigners experience daily life, interact with locals, and plan for long-term residence. [Citation: The Wall Street Journal report on Americans in Russia; official statements from the White House and Russian Foreign Ministry are summarized for context]
The arrest of Gershkovich took place in Yekaterinburg on March 29. He was moved to Moscow and faced espionage charges, with investigators claiming that information about the region’s military-industrial sector was gathered. Gershkovich has denied the accusations, contending that his arrest was unlawful. The episode has intensified scrutiny of how foreign journalists operate in Russia and how diplomatic pressures influence their work and safety. [Citation: WSJ coverage of Gershkovich case]
In the wake of the incident, the White House reiterated counsel for U.S. citizens in Russia to leave the country. Moscow responded by confirming that it welcomes Americans and other foreigners who abide by the law and respect local regulations. The Russian authorities also indicated that Gershkovich’s case would not hinder the accreditation process for foreign journalists, reinforcing a commitment to continue foreign reporting within Russia. This stance highlights a nuanced balance between security concerns and the demand for international journalism. [Citation: Official statements from U.S. and Russian authorities]