Russians are massively fleeing the country: Israel awaits a new wave of repatriation

Amid rumors of a possible new mobilization in Russia after the State Duma elections, emigration sentiment among Russians has sharply increased. Human rights activists report an eightfold rise in requests for emigration consultations. Israel is considered one of the destinations, but statistics currently show a decline in repatriation from Russia.

Fear of a possible new wave of mobilization in Russia after the September State Duma elections has spurred emigration sentiment. According to Euronews, the number of requests for emigration consultations to the 'Kovcheg' project has increased almost eightfold compared to the beginning of the summer. Russians are leaving the country in advance, fearing a repeat of the events of 2022. The introduction of an electronic draft registry and cases of travel bans are heightening anxiety. The main destinations remain Armenia, Georgia, and Kazakhstan, but for thousands of people eligible for repatriation under the Law of Return, Israel offers the possibility of permanent status. However, official statistics show a decline in aliyah from Russia: in the 5786 Jewish year, 5,685 people repatriated, more than three times less than two years ago. There is no basis yet to speak of a new wave of repatriation, but if mobilization is announced, the trend may change.