Russia has been subject to economic sanctions and the Japanese government is raising the level of danger information.


We interviewed Mr. Tsunetaka Kawabe (65), who has lived in Moscow for over 30 years, about the local situation and his thoughts online.

The situation in Russia

First of all, regarding the current situation in Russia, Mr. Kawabe said, "The invasion of Ukraine has not been reported in detail in Russia. I see the situation in Japan on the Internet and understand the situation. There was no particular confusion, and there was a line at the ATMs of the banks for a while, but that is not always the case. "



On the other hand, "I feel that the area of ​​the grocery store is getting smaller and the number of items is decreasing at the supermarket. Also, the value of the ruble is decreasing, so the price of goods will rise, and so on. I think it will have an impact on my life. I think there will be more people who are visibly in trouble by the end of this month, rather than having such a long span. "



Also, regarding the fact that protests are being reported in Russia one after another, Mr. Kawabe said, "On TV, only the Russian side's view is reported, but especially young people are various on the Internet etc. I think that the Russian people can know what is happening because they can get information. However, no one speaks loudly that they are against the war in the city, and it seems to be reported. I haven't seen any demos myself, and in that sense, I think the city is still in peace. "

Increasing number of people thinking about returning to Japan by raising danger information

The Government of Japan is also raising the level of danger information throughout Russia, excluding the area around the border with Ukraine, and is calling on Japanese residents to consider leaving the country.



Regarding this, Mr. Kawabe said, "Many people living in Moscow and other places are watching over the situation, but as the level of danger information is raised, more and more people are going back to Japan. As far as I know, I think about half of the companies are trying to get all their employees back home. "



However, at present, flights from Russia to overseas are limited to some flights via the Middle East, etc., and Mr. Kawabe also said that the flight reserved for returning to Japan was canceled later this month. That is.



Mr. Kawabe said, "Now, the number of flights is limited, the price of tickets is rising sharply, and it is not easy to return to Japan. Those who decide to return will want to leave the country as soon as possible, so this week I think it's difficult to make a reservation for the latest flight such as next week. "

Work in Moscow for more than 30 years is “uncertain”

Mr. Kawabe has been working in Moscow for over 30 years since the former Soviet Union.



However, I feel that it will be difficult in the future.



Mr. Kawabe said, "I think Russia will continue to suffer from economic sanctions, and when asked if it will be an environment where people can work again, I have to say that the future is uncertain. This is the first time I have been invisible, and now I want to return home early to meet my grandchildren and children in Japan. I want to be relieved to return home safely. "