Safe Passage: Russians Evacuate via Turkmenistan Amid Middle East Tensions

The Russian embassy in Turkmenistan announced that Russians stranded in Iran could leave through Turkmenistan. Despite Turkmenistan's strict visa policies, it has facilitated evacuations amid Middle East tensions. The nation urges diplomatic resolutions, maintaining its neutral stance during regional conflicts.

Russians unable to exit Iran now have a route via Turkmenistan, according to a statement from the Russian embassy in Turkmenistan. This Central Asian nation, sharing a long border with northeastern Iran, offers a critical escape channel.

Despite a notoriously stringent visa regime, Turkmenistan has opened its doors for evacuations, similar to its actions during last year's Iran-Israel conflict. Foreigners, including Russians, are also leaving Iran through various border crossings with neighboring Turkey, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.

This move comes as Turkmenistan reaffirms its commitment to neutrality, lamenting recent Middle East hostilities and advocating for a peaceful diplomatic resolution.

(With inputs from agencies.)