From Moscow to Belgrade: Russian Expatriates Forge a New Life

Vadim Morus, a Russian ice skater, is part of a wave of tens of thousands that fled Russia for Serbia after the invasion of Ukraine. They have established a vibrant community in Belgrade, contributing to various sectors, with many maintaining strong cultural connections to Russia.

On a sweltering summer morning in Serbia's capital Belgrade, Vadim Morus, a professional ice skater from Russia, glides across an outdoor rink. Fleeing Russia with his fiancée in 2022, Morus joined tens of thousands moving to Serbia after Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Although initially a long journey from Moscow, many Russians like Morus chose Belgrade due to its cultural and religious ties.

Interviews with immigrants and local officials reveal that Russians fleeing conflict, conscription, or political issues have created a vibrant community in Serbia. Russian-owned establishments, from clubs to kindergartens, have flourished, with over 30,000 registering for temporary residence between February 2022 and mid-2023, a sharp increase from previous years.

The influx of Russians has resulted in 11,081 new businesses in diverse sectors, from internet services to hospitality. Despite the historical ties and cordial relations between Russia and Serbia, many Russian emigrants struggle to integrate, instead preferring to maintain strong connections to their native culture.

(With inputs from agencies.)