Alexander Mashrabov, co-founder of the US-based AI video startup Higgsfield, receives Kazakh citizenship and applies to renounce Russian citizenship

Alexander Mashrabov, co-founder of the US AI video startup Higgsfield, has received Kazakh citizenship. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed the decree on October 30, and Kazakhstan’s digital development minister said the company’s growth would contribute to the country’s AI industry.

Mashrabov has applied to renounce his Russian citizenship, according to a Higgsfield spokesperson; Kazakhstan does not permit dual citizenship. Founded in 2023, Higgsfield makes AI video tools and has more than 40 million users. Forbes reported annual revenue of $700 million in August 2026, up from $20 million a year earlier, and valued the company at $5.4 billion; Mashrabov may own a 20% stake.