Phuket draws Russians seeking safety from war and conscription fears
Phuket has become a major destination for Russians seeking to leave a country shaped by war, conscription fears and political repression. The article describes the growth of Russian businesses, schools and services on the Thai island, and says some newcomers see it as a safer place to live and protect their money.
It estimates that at least 60,000 Russians have moved to Phuket, whose registered population is 432,000, and reports more than 619,000 Russian visitor arrivals in the first seven months of the year. Russians interviewed describe fears of renewed mobilisation and opposition to the war, while some are buying homes; one recent arrival had purchased three properties. The article also notes that Russian migration to the island began after the Soviet Union collapsed.
- Phuket has drawn tens of thousands of Russian residents.
- Some cite conscription fears and economic uncertainty.
- Russian visitors exceeded 619,000 in seven months.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “The Russian invasion of Thailand: Desperate to escape conscription and protect their wealth from Putin’s crumbling economy, IAN BIRRELL reveals how thousands are buying homes on the paradise island of Phuket”.