Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — A proposal to introduce a visa regime for citizens of Uzbekistan has been put forward in Russia. Sergei Mironov, leader of the "A Just Russia – For Truth" faction, made the suggestion on his social media page on X.

Mironov voiced his displeasure in response to a statement from the Consulate General of Uzbekistan in Kazan, which urged Uzbek citizens not to join the Russian army. He stated, "The Consulate General of Uzbekistan in Kazan called on Uzbeks not to join the ranks of the Russian Army. Why didn’t they call for not receiving maternity capital? Or using other benefits? That’s allowed! But defending the country that feeds you is not? Visa regime! And nothing else! We don’t need such ‘citizens’."

Mironov’s remarks came after the consulate issued a reminder to Uzbek citizens that participating in mercenary activities is a criminal offense under Uzbek law. Specifically, Uzbekistan’s Criminal Code stipulates a prison sentence of 5 to 10 years for mercenary activities.

It’s important to clarify that Uzbeks working in Russia do not receive maternity capital, contrary to Mironov’s claims.

Russian law also includes an article on mercenary activities, which provides for a prison sentence of 12 to 18 years.