Russians Top List of Nationalities Seeking to Cross US-Mexico Border April McAbee - Citizen Media
go to original March 6, 2022

Thousands of Russians fleeing the escalating violence, conscription, and political persecution by the Kremlin are making their way to America, by way of Mexico. Those that have been successful in their journey are creating instructional videos to help their comrades follow in their footsteps.

In the first two months of 2022, 5,984 Russians sought asylum compared to just 3,893 in the whole of 2021 according to Custom and Border Protection figures.

In December of 2021, over 2,000 Russians and 300 Ukrainians made their way to the border. By comparison, only 53 Russians were found at the US-Mexico border in December of the previous year.

The new numbers make Russians the number one nationality seeking help at refugee shelters run by the San Diego Rapid Response Network, a charity that coordinates shelter and legal advice for asylum seekers.

As Putin’s forces invaded Ukraine, Russians topped the list of nationalities seeking help in the US, ahead of Cubans and Armenians.

The video diaries discovered show how fleeing Russians travel to Mexico. Mexico is one of the few countries that allow visa-free travel.

Asylum seekers make their way to Tijuana on the US border in Baja California. From there, they cross into the US via the San Ysidro and Otay Mesa ports of entry where they voluntarily hand themselves over to border patrol and formally ask for asylum.

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Related: Mexico Rules Out Imposing Economic Sanctions on Russia (France24)

Related: How to Help Ukrainians Affected by Russian Invasion (Associated Press)

Related: BBB Tip: Donating Wisely to Assist Ukraine Relief Efforts (The Times)