Serbia Becomes a Haven for Russians Fleeing War and Conscription

In the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Serbia has emerged as a popular destination for Russians seeking refuge from conflict, conscription, and the political climate under President Vladimir Putin. The Serbian capital, Belgrade, has become a vibrant hub for this new Russian diaspora, with over 30,000 Russians registering for temporary residence between February 2022 and mid-2023. This influx has led to the formation of a 'mini Russia' within Serbia, as the newcomers seek to rebuild their lives a thousand miles away from Moscow.