The recent terrorist attack on a Moscow concert hall has prompted the Russian government, led by Vladimir Putin, to intensify its repression against immigrants in the country. Four individuals accused of the attack were identified as citizens of Tajikistan, a former Soviet republic in Central Asia. These individuals were reportedly in Russia on temporary work visas, some of which had expired.
In response to the attack, which was claimed by an Islamic State front and caught the authorities off guard, the Kremlin launched a crackdown on immigrants. This resulted in around 40 migrants being arrested in an area 60 kilometers from Moscow and a barbershop in Ivanovo, where one of the alleged terrorists worked, being targeted with xenophobic attacks.
Russian authorities, including internal security and migration agencies, have conducted operations to persecute foreigners in the country since then. This has led to nearly 500 people being ordered to leave since the Moscow terrorist attack. Many immigrants in Russia hail from Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan and their governments advised against participating in demonstrations or crowded events due to the risk of persecution or violence.
Despite their essential roles in the job market, especially during times of war, Putin aims to maintain national unity and a moderate image. However, his persecution of foreigners is becoming increasingly apparent and is fueling tensions within the country. The Russian regime’s claims of increased crimes by immigrants contradict official data showing a decline in such incidents. Human Rights Watch reports that even before the attack, foreigners faced constant persecution with racial profiling, identity checks and prolonged detentions unfairly targeting non-Slavic migrants and ethnic minorities. The ongoing crackdown on immigrants threatens further strain within Russian society.
The escalation in mobilization against foreigners can be attributed to this incident as four individuals accused of the attack were identified as citizens of Tajikistan. Despite this incident’s impact on Russian intelligence’s image and tarnished it; Putin remains determined to maintain national unity and a moderate image while keeping up with his persecution against foreigners.
The treatment of foreigners is increasingly criticized for being unfairly targeting non-Slavic migrants and ethnic minorities who play essential roles in Russia’s economy during times of war like today when they are needed more than ever.
Overall, while there is no denying that immigration poses challenges for any country
