Kazakhstan Explains How Russians Who Fled Mobilization Can Be Deported

Kazakh authorities may begin deporting Russians who left the country to avoid mobilization. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has clarified the procedure, Orda.kz reports.

Recently, several media outlets, including Meduza, TV Rain and The Bell, reported that Kazakhstan’s National Security Committee is investigating a major criminal case involving fake temporary residence permits. Dozens of Russians of military age are said to be witnesses in the case and could face deportation to Russia. Journalists cite human rights defenders who assist Russian emigrants who left the country because of the war.

Human rights activists link this to preparations for a “mass deportation based on lists agreed with the Russian Federation,” although formally the case is described as a non-political criminal investigation. At the same time, it is important to understand that the issue mainly concerns foreigners who are staying in Kazakhstan illegally. If a person has a temporary residence permit and a job, they should not be affected.

First Deputy Foreign Minister Erzhan Ashykbayev commented on the situation. He did not rule out the possibility of deportation itself, but explained the mechanism.

We work in accordance with our international obligations. The issue of returning citizens to their country, which is being reported in the media, requires compliance with the relevant national procedures. In such cases, citizens go to court. First of all, a person receives asylum seeker status, after which a decision is made by the relevant authorities. If a citizen does not agree with this decision, they can appeal it in court. And only after a court ruling can procedures for returning a person to their country be carried out.he said on the sidelines of the Mazhilis. 

It is worth recalling that in 2022, after Russia announced partial mobilization, Kazakhstan became one of the main destinations for Russians fleeing the war. Many passed through the country in transit, but many also remained in Kazakhstan.

Original author: Ilya Astakhov

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