More and more Russians are leaving the country to escape the meat grinder

Dmitry, a 35-year-old Russian, leaves the country fearing mobilization for the war in Ukraine after voting in the parliamentary elections. Many Russians are fleeing to neighboring countries like Armenia and Kazakhstan to avoid being drafted. The ongoing conflict and high casualty rates have heightened fears of new mobilizations, especially after the elections. Experts note three waves of Russian emigration since the war began, with the latest wave driven by rumors of impending drafts. The Kremlin denies these rumors, but many Russians remain skeptical. Recruitment often targets the most vulnerable in society, highlighting the disparity in motivations between Russian soldiers and Ukrainian fighters.