EU Urged to Welcome Skilled Russians to Weaken Putin
Exiled Kremlin critics are urging the EU to welcome skilled Russians fleeing Putin, arguing that this would weaken Russia’s economy. An estimated one million Russians have left since the 2022 Ukraine invasion, but job shortages and visa issues have led some to return. A study suggests a program for economic migration, highlighting that these exiles are highly qualified and support Western values.
A group of exiled Kremlin critics called on Tuesday for EU countries to welcome skilled Russians fleeing Vladimir Putin's regime.
This initiative aims to damage Russia's war-time economy by creating a shortage of skilled workers.
An estimated one million people have left Russia since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, with some returning due to job scarcity and visa issues.
Russian opposition politician Dmitry Gudkov and economist Vladislav Inozemtsev presented a study on the Russian diaspora, conducted by the University of Nicosia, detailing the exodus and its potential impact.
They proposed an 'economic migration' program, stressing that most expatriates support Western values and are highly qualified.
Authorities in Moscow acknowledge that labor shortages pose a threat to economic growth.
Despite anti-immigrant sentiments in Europe, the study argued that Russian exiles could easily integrate and benefit European economies.
EU nations, especially France and Germany, have welcomed many Russians, but ongoing challenges include concerns over security risks.
Gudkov highlighted the struggles faced by Russian exiles, including issues like opening bank accounts, and noted that some are returning to Russia.