Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a new decree positioning Russia as a sanctuary for those fleeing Western liberal ideals. The decree simplifies the visa process for foreigners who seek to embrace “traditional Russian spiritual and moral values” over “destructive neoliberal ideas” prevalent in the West.

Simplified Residency for Like-Minded Individuals

Under this new policy, applicants can obtain a three-month visa as early as next month, with residency available without the need for language or history tests. The decree highlights Russia’s appeal to those disillusioned with Western values, offering a streamlined path to temporary residency.

Growing Admiration from the Far Right

The policy has been praised by far-right figures and conspiracy theorists who admire Russian society’s focus on traditional values. Putin’s rhetoric, which often condemns Western ideals as “satanic” or destructive, aligns with this new initiative to attract those seeking an alternative to neoliberalism.