Russian consulates in some countries deemed ‘unfriendly’ by Kremlin may not organize voting in upcoming presidential election

Russian consulates in some countries designated as “unfriendly” by the Kremlin might not organize polling places for the upcoming presidential election, potentially leaving Russians living abroad with no clear way to vote, the Russian business newspaper Vedomosti reported Tuesday, citing diplomatic sources.

According to the report, the Russian authorities have not reached a definitive decision but may be considering forgoing voting at consulates in a “significant number” of the 49 countries on the “unfriendly” list. A source close to the Russian Foreign Ministry said a final decision will be made by the end of January.

The sources said the measure would be a response to security concerns and a decrease in consulate staff.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told Vedomosti that the agency is “assessing the situation.” She added that the Russian authorities are currently asking the countries in question to “ensure security,” and that a “decision regarding the organization of voting abroad” will follow.

Russia’s list of “unfriendly countries” includes all E.U. member states, the U.S., Great Britain, Norway, Japan, Switzerland, Canada, and South Korea, among others.