Sergei Mironov's statement, the leader of the "Fair Russia" party, published on October 19 on his Twitter account, sparked a wave of criticism from Uzbek deputies. In his statement, Mironov condemned the call from the General Consulate of Uzbekistan in Kazan, which recommended that citizens of Uzbekistan refrain from joining the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation.
Mironov expressed his dissatisfaction by questioning the legitimacy of social benefits and allowances received by migrants from Uzbekistan, considering their refusal to serve in the Russian army. "Why are they not calling for a refusal to receive child allowances or other benefits?" the politician questioned. He also called for the introduction of a visa regime with Uzbekistan, claiming that "such 'citizens' are not needed."
The reaction from the Uzbek side was prompt. Former member of the Uzbek parliament Rasul Kusherbaev addressed Mironov on his Twitter account with the question: "If Uzbekistan were sending Russian citizens working on its territory to war, would the diplomatic missions of Russia remain silent?" Kusherbaev also reminded that Uzbekistan has the right to impose a visa regime for Russian citizens.
Chairman of the Democratic Party "National Revival" Alisher Kadyrov emphasized that Uzbeks "earn their living through honest work, not through killings." He expressed the opinion that defending the homeland is the duty of every citizen, including Mironov himself and his relatives.
Bobur Bekmurodov, a deputy of the Oliy Majlis and head of the "Yuksalish" movement, called the consulate's position natural and fair, aimed at protecting its citizens. He expressed concern that such rhetoric could negatively impact bilateral relations between the countries. Bekmurodov highlighted the contribution of labor migrants from Uzbekistan to the Russian economy and described the comparison of social benefits with life risks as "ignorance and foolishness." He reminded of Article 7 of the Treaty on Allied Relations between Uzbekistan and Russia, which guarantees the protection of the rights and interests of citizens of both countries.
Sergei Mironov, the leader of the "Fair Russia" party, is known for his tough stance on migration issues. He has repeatedly called for stricter immigration laws and limitations on the flow of labor migrants to Russia.