On October 15, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree outlining the Federation’s migration policy for 2026‑2030, setting new targets amid rising migrant flows and wartime shifts.
Decree Outlines New Migration Policy
On 15 October, President Vladimir Putin signed the decree “Concept of the State Migration Policy of the Russian Federation for 2026‑2030.” Published on the official Russian government website, it evaluates migration impacts from 2019‑2025 and sets objectives for the next four‑year period.
The decree notes a substantial rise in wage‑seeking migrants in recent years, primarily from countries with which Russia has a visa regime, trend it expects to continue throughout 2026‑2030.
Stricter Controls and Digital Surveillance
The decree states that new security challenges require the migration policy to improve. It calls for tighter controls on incoming migrants using digital databases, biometric systems, a monitored registry, and other oversight measures.
It also proposes conditions that encourage voluntary relocation to Russia, particularly for “foreigners who recognize traditional values.”
Repatriation of Occupied‑Ukrainian Citizens
The document plans the repatriation of residents of occupied Ukrainian territories who fled due to the war, including those abroad, by 2030. This is marked as a key implementation area.
Trump Urges Russian Exit from Ukraine
U.S. President Donald Trump called on Vladimir Putin to end the war in Ukraine, insisting he stop killing Ukrainians and Russians alike. Trump expressed frustration over stalled peace progress and labeled Putin the main obstacle to ending the conflict.
He suggested Ukraine plans an offensive and stated he would decide on the matter. On Friday, Oct 17, Trump scheduled a meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky at the White House to discuss, among other topics, weapon deliveries to Ukraine.
