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Poland Warns Its Citizens: Leave Russia Now or Risk Mobilization and Detention
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![Photo of Ivan Khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
The Polish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a renewed advisory urging all Polish citizens to leave the Russian Federation immediately due to heightened security risks and limited consular support.
According to the official statement released on July 22, Polish nationals currently in Russia are encouraged to depart by any available means—commercial or private—unless they have essential personal, family, or professional reasons to remain.
The ministry emphasized that the ongoing war in Ukraine, combined with Russia’s classification of Poland as a “hostile state,” has significantly increased the risks for Polish citizens on Russian territory.
The Polish government cited several developments that limit its ability to provide assistance. These include the closure of Polish consulates in Saint Petersburg and Kaliningrad, which severely restricts access to direct consular services.
In the event of an emergency, Polish nationals may need to seek assistance from consular posts in third countries. Moreover, unregistered travel in the Odyseusz system may further complicate diplomatic interventions during crises.
The advisory notes that evacuation from Russia could become infeasible in case of a sudden border closure or further deterioration of the security situation.
The Ministry also warned of additional risks facing Polish citizens in Russia, including:
No direct flights between Poland and Russia;
Limited travel options and inaccessible banking services;
Possibility of arbitrary detentions and phone inspections by Russian security services.
Particular concern was raised for dual nationals holding both Polish and Russian citizenship. Under Russian law, such individuals are treated solely as Russian citizens and may be subject to compulsory military service in the event of further mobilization.
Earlier, Poland became the first NATO country to approach 5% of its GDP in defense spending, allocating $50 billion for 2025—up nearly 40% from the previous year. The move, described by Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz as a step toward military transformation, positions Poland as a leading security contributor within the alliance.
