Russian President Vladimir Putin signed a decree on December 18 simplifying naturalization of Belarusian, Kazakh, and Moldovan citizens. According to the decree, citizens of the three countries do not have to prove they permanently stayed in Russia for five years after obtaining a residence permit. They also are exempt from exams on knowledge of Russian history and statehood. Belarusian citizens are also freed from the Russian language test. Earlier this year, Putin signed a decree to allow the obtaining of Russian citizenship in a simplified manner for foreigners who sign contracts with Defense Ministry amid Moscow's ongoing invasion of Ukraine. To read the original story by RFE/RL's Russian Service, click here.
