politics
February 20, 2026
Putin expands Russian outreach to global talent
Russia will help foreign citizens with expertise in various fields to move to the country, President Vladimir Putin has said
TL;DR
- Russia plans to assist foreign citizens with expertise in various fields to relocate to the country.
- President Putin announced a specialized body overseen by the Agency for Strategic Initiatives (ASI) to help foreigners move to Russia.
- The program targets individuals with highly sought-after professions, knowledge, and achievements in sectors like economy, sports, creative industries, education, science, and technology.
- This initiative builds on a 2024 decree that simplifies the process for foreigners rejecting "neoliberal ideological orientation" and supporting traditional values to move to Russia.
- The Interior Ministry will handle legal status issues for these individuals.
- Maria Zakharova, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, noted that people are seeking to move to Russia, citing Tara Reade as an example.