The appeal of relocating to Russia has sharply declined, particularly among ex-pats and foreign citizens, following the country's aggressive actions against Ukraine. According to official statistics from Russia's Ministry of Internal Affairs, approximately 26,700 people moved to Russia for residency in 2025, marking a decrease of nearly 16% from the previous year. This trend has been consistent since the start of the war, as repatriation figures have fallen each year, with 64,800 reported in 2022 and 45,100 in 2023. This suggests a growing hesitance among foreign nationals to view Russia as a viable destination for relocation.

The majority of those moving to Russia in 2025 were citizens from neighboring countries such as Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkmenistan, with Kazakhstan accounting for about 35% of the total. Other significant numbers came from Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Armenia, illustrating a trend where individuals from nearby former Soviet republics are considering relocation to Russia, despite its geopolitical climate. Interestingly, there were reports of individuals moving to Russia from the Baltic states of Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia, although they represent a smaller demographic within these statistics.

This decline in repatriation raises questions about the long-term implications for Russia, particularly in terms of population trends and the challenges it might face with international relations and its military actions. As perceptions of safety and stability change for potential movers, Russia may struggle to attract new citizens, which could further complicate its demographic and economic strategies in an era marked by international isolation and sanctions.