Approximately 666,000 Russians have departed from Russia since the beginning of the conflict and have not returned, as calculated by The Bell.
Throughout their investigation, the publication meticulously examined data from nearly 70 different host countries. This information was gathered by analyzing official statistics, statements from government officials, and direct responses from authorities in response to inquiries. It is important to note that the data from the FSB border service only reflects the number of border crossings made by individuals in Russia, which may include multiple crossings by the same person. On the other hand, data from the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs regarding Russians obtaining permanent residency in other countries is based solely on voluntary reports provided by the individuals themselves.
The top five destinations for Russian emigrants include Armenia, with 110,000 individuals relocating, followed by Israel and Kazakhstan (both with 80,000), Georgia (73,500), and the United States (48,000). Germany has welcomed 36,000 Russian expatriates, Serbia approximately 30,000, and Turkey 28,000. It should be noted that these figures are estimates and may vary.
The Bell highlights that while the percentage of emigrants is 0.5% of Russia’s total population, it represents the largest wave of emigration from the country in the past two decades. According to demographer Salavat Abylkalykov from Northumbria University in the UK, as cited by the publication, this emigration trend primarily consists of a “brain drain,” where highly skilled young professionals are leaving the country.
Article from theins.ru