Massive Jams Bring Kazakhstan–Russia Border to a Standstill

Multi-kilometer truck lines have formed at three customs checkpoints on the Kazakhstan–Russia border. Neither country has provided an official explanation, leaving only speculation about new procedures and stricter checks, Orda.kz reports.

The Russian outlet Business FM highlighted the problem after a businessman reported that queues at the crossings could last up to a week. He estimated that at least five thousand trucks are stuck on each side, with movement nearly halted. While inspections once took 10–15 minutes per truck, vehicles are now idle for hours.

Rumors in the lines suggest the Russian side is testing a new entry system requiring foreign drivers to obtain a Russian ID through Gosuslugi and give 72 hours’ notice before arrival. On the Kazakh side, drivers believe authorities are tightening cargo checks, particularly for Chinese dual-use goods.

According to logistics companies, the worst congestion is at:

• Zhelkuar (Qostanay Region) – Bugristoye (Chelyabinsk Region)
• Zhaisan (Aqtobe Region) – Veseloyarsk (Altai Krai)
• Mamlyutka (North Kazakhstan Region) – Petukhovo (Kurgan Region)

Orda.kz has requested official clarification from the Border Service of the National Security Committee and the State Revenue Committee of Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Finance.

On August 14, the Border Service had already warned of possible difficulties on the Kazakh-Russian border due to repair work at Russian border posts.

Original Author: Anastasia Prilepskaya