Risks for Individuals with Ties to Ukraine in Russia: real experience from chats

While you might be allowed entry, you could be flagged in a registry (RKL), leading to potential deportation during checks. It's advisable to wait until early January for re-entry. Traveling as a tourist via car checkpoints may also lead to limitations, such as not being able to register your arrival. Border control might have specific filters targeting certain nationalities or individuals depending on the entry point (e.g., Sheremetyevo for Ukrainians, Kaliningrad/Pskov for other foreigners). Not having served in the army could be a reason for refusal. Having a residence permit (VNZh) or proof of employment and residence in Russia is recommended.

While some sources state that only external device inspection is permitted without a court order (citing Article 23 of the Russian Constitution), anecdotal evidence suggests that non-Russian passport holders, especially those with EU residence permits or citizenships, or connections to Ukraine, may face lengthy interrogations (2-4 hours) and intrusive digital device checks (reading messengers, contacts). These incidents are reportedly more common at land borders. Some travelers with French VNJ reported no issues, while others faced extensive questioning. There's conflicting information and varied experiences.

Key recommendations: 1) Ensure no prohibited substances (cannabis-infused products) are in luggage. 2) Clean mobile devices of sensitive content/opinions if concerned about potential inspection, though checks are infrequent. 3) Expect restricted internet access (VPN required for many sites). 4) Travelers born in Ukraine may face longer questioning. 5) No direct correlation between origin country (Germany) and detention.

Possession of dual citizenship or a residence permit may lead to delays. Phone checks and interrogations can occur. Individuals born in Russia typically face fewer issues. Processing times vary significantly. Having foreign citizenship can sometimes mitigate these checks.

In multiple instances, travelers have reported their phones were not inspected. However, it is suggested that the likelihood of a phone check might be higher for individuals of certain nationalities, such as Ukrainian citizens.