Russians Massively Withdraw Money from the Country and Prepare for the Worst

Ukrainian intelligence reports that Russians are massively transferring funds abroad and buying cash currency amid fears of stricter policies and possible mobilization. From December 2024 to June 2026, about 600 billion rubles were transferred to foreign brokers, with monthly transfers of 42-45 billion rubles in April-June. About 40% of operations represent real capital outflow, a quarter — preparation for relocation. Demand for cash currency reached nearly 159 billion rubles, with about 2 trillion rubles withdrawn from banks. Intelligence warns of a risk of dollar and euro shortages due to new sanctions.

According to Ukrainian intelligence (HUR), Russians are massively withdrawing money from the country and buying cash currency, linked to fears of tightening domestic policy, new restrictions, and possible mobilization. From December 2024 to June 2026, Russian households transferred about 600 billion rubles to foreign brokers — more than in the previous seven years combined. In April-June, monthly transfers averaged approximately 42-45 billion rubles (over 500 million dollars). About 40% of transfers, according to the agency, represent real capital outflow, and another quarter is related to preparation for a possible move abroad. Demand for cash currency also grew: in April-June, citizens bought nearly 159 billion rubles, and from January to July, about 2 trillion rubles were withdrawn from the banking system into cash, with 620 billion in July alone. The HUR links this to anxious expectations after the State Duma elections, up to a new wave of mobilization. Intelligence warns that new US sanctions could cut off channels for supplying cash dollars, and EU restrictions — euros. President Zelensky has stated that Russia may be preparing mobilization in the fall, citing losses of about 30 thousand servicemen per month.