Amid protests by Russians calling for an end to the attacks on Ukraine, a Brazilian student in Russia told CNN that the country’s universities asked foreign students not to comment on the war to the press.
The consequences for students can range from visa suspension to deportation to the country of origin. “We received a statement from the college today officially. The Russians who are protesting are being arrested and as an immigrant, everything is more tense”, said the Brazilian.
Immigrants are also banned from participating in any protest in the country, under penalty of deportation, according to the student.
In Moscow alone, the capital of Russia, more than 1,600 citizens have already been arrested in demonstrations against the military operation of Russian troops in Ukraine. More than 40 cities have already registered protests in favor of stopping the war.
“The vast majority of Russians I know and have contact with do not agree with the attacks. Many also have families in Ukraine and are concerned. So the population is very sleepy, you know? Wanting to scream, but having to keep quiet”, said the Brazilian student.
The 22-year-old Brazilian student has lived in Kursk, Russia, for four years. The city is about two hours from the Ukrainian border.
According to her account, contrary to what Ukrainians have been experiencing, the routine remains normal with all services working. The young woman adds that other Brazilians who live in the city are doing well. However, it is possible to notice military movements in Kursk.
“We have a large military base here, so even though we were not witnessing the war, we ended up seeing movement, like tanks passing by, military trucks and especially fighter jets that pass by day and night all the time,” said the student.
The Brazilian also reported that, at the moment, there is still no need for evacuation in the city, but that the Brazilian Embassy, located in Moscow, has not yet issued any official statement of danger.
Only one bus was offered to take students to the Russian capital. On Thursday (24), flights to eleven airports in the south of the country were suspended.
“The entire city is equipped with sirens and bunkers, in case there is a need for an extremely fast evacuation”, said the Brazilian.
Source: CNN Brasil
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