How Russian dissidents are being punished by both Russia and Europe

What the report says

Al Jazeera reports that Russian authorities are tightening pressure on citizens abroad who oppose the war in Ukraine, while several European countries are also narrowing pathways to legal protection for Russian emigres. The article says a new law signed by President Vladimir Putin restricts consular services for Russians convicted in absentia in political cases, including people accused under laws on “foreign agents” or “discrediting” the Russian military.

The piece argues that the policy could leave many Russian dissidents unable to renew passports or access other basic services, even if their citizenship is not formally revoked. It places the move in the context of a broader pattern since 2023, when Russia expanded legal tools that allow citizenship to be terminated for some naturalised citizens convicted of broad categories of offenses. The author, Russian-Armenian activist and political scientist Arshak Makichyan, writes from personal experience of being stripped of citizenship after opposing the war.

Al Jazeera also says some European governments have become more restrictive toward Russian asylum seekers and residents. It cites Germany, Finland and the Baltic states as places where legal status, asylum or other forms of entry have become harder to secure, and says this has left many anti-war Russians with limited options. The article’s broader point is that people fleeing political persecution can end up trapped between Moscow’s punishment and Europe’s growing suspicion, despite seeking safety from the war and repression.