As the situation in Ukraine develops, we would like to share our Eastern European partner Intermark’s most up to date information as it relates to service capabilities and limitations.
Ukraine
Airspace over Ukraine is closed, all airports are closed and used for military purposes only. Ukraine closed land borders with Belarus and Russia. A curfew has been introduced in cities and regions of Ukraine. Most businesses have suspended operations and schools are closed.
Many people are either fleeing the country or moving westward and the Lviv area is overpopulated, with multiple people sharing hotel rooms and so on.
Male Ukrainian citizens aged 18-60 are not let out from the country due to the Presidents’ decree on mobilization, dated February 24.
The National Bank of Ukraine has limited cash withdrawals of UAH 100,000, which is approximately 3,300 USD.
Impact on Services: HHG and Immigration services are fully suspended.
Russia
All EU countries have closed their airspace for Russia. Moreover, Russia has closed its airspace for EU countries and some non-EU countries. Impacted countries are Albania, Anguilla, Britain, British Virgin Islands, Gibraltar, Jersey, Canada, and Norway. Flights from these countries can be permitted only upon the special decision of Russian authorities.
Many international corporations are evacuating their foreign population (either temporarily or permanently). The Anglo-American School of Moscow is temporarily moving to distance learning as of March 1, with most teaching staff (US citizens) advised to leave the country. Other international schools are at the moment confirming their plan, to continue work as normal for now.
On February 28, the exchange rate of the Russian Rouble reached a historic low and inflation is at a record high. Therefore, the cost of living differentials are affected. EU, USA, and Canada have decided to disconnect from SWIFT Russian banks VTB, Otkritie Bank, Promsvyazbank (PSB), Novikombank, Sovkombank.
In Russia, multiple demonstrations requesting to stop the war have been held. They have been cracked down by police with many arrests. It is recommended to be mindful of heavy police concentration in Moscow, Saint-Petersburg and other big city centers, particularly in the evenings, when protesters are most active. Outside of that, there are no safety concerns for assignees.
Russian government has limited the work of Facebook, there may be more restrictions coming in the coming weeks. It is recommended to install the app Telegram, as an additional communication platform.
Moldova
On February 24, the Parliament of Moldova declared a state of emergency for 60 days, due to the situation in Ukraine and threats to the security of Moldova. Massive numbers of refugees fleeing Ukraine have arrived in Moldova. Real estate is rented out at the same prices, some property owners organize housing for free, including real estate agencies.
Georgia
With more people from Russia and Ukraine coming to Georgia, the real estate market is rising in price and demand is growing.
Movenet is prioritizing support for anyone directly caught in the conflict and welcome you to contact us with any questions you may have.
