Kremlin on reasons for plans to liquidate Jewish agency

Russian presidential spokesman Dmitriy Peskov has commented on the Justice Ministry's intention to liquidate the Jewish agency Sokhnut, which has long been assisting in repatriation to Israel.

He said that this is not connected with an attempt to prevent the increased emigration of Jews from Russia, according to Russia's MK. 

According to some reports, 20,000 Jews left Russia last year, including with the agency's help, and after February 24, 30,000 Jewish citizens left Russia and Ukraine together.

"This is not related to brain drain, it is related to compliance with Russian legislation," Peskov said, noting that the Russian authorities are not afraid of brain drain. Moreover, people not only leave but also come to Russia.

For the reasons that prompted the liquidation of the agency, the Russian presidential press secretary advised contacting the Justice Ministry.