The Russian government has acknowledged Uzbekistan’s concerns regarding recent police actions targeting Uzbek nationals and is currently reviewing the matter, according to a statement by Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova, as reported by state news agency TASS.
Zakharova confirmed that the Russian Foreign Ministry had received a formal diplomatic note from the Uzbek Embassy in Moscow, requesting explanations over reports of mistreatment during recent police operations. She said the contents of the note are being examined thoroughly and have been forwarded to the appropriate Russian authorities.
“We are studying the content of the note with full attention,” Zakharova said. “We maintain direct communication with our Uzbek partners, including through law enforcement channels. We are allies, and all such signals are taken seriously.”
Zakharova stated that Russia would provide Uzbekistan with verified and objective information following internal investigations. She also reaffirmed the strategic importance of bilateral ties. “Uzbekistan is our ally and strategic partner. We approach all issues in our bilateral relations with this in mind,” she said.
Tensions Over Police Conduct
The diplomatic exchange follows a statement earlier this week by Uzbek Foreign Ministry spokesperson Akhror Burkhanov, who expressed concern over the reported mistreatment of Uzbek citizens during recent police raids in Russia. In response, the Uzbek Embassy submitted a diplomatic note formally seeking clarification and legal assessment of the incidents.
The most prominent of these occurred on June 8 in the Strogino district of Moscow, where Russian law enforcement reportedly raided a dormitory housing migrants, including Uzbek nationals. Videos circulated by Russian media showed officers using force, with reports of beatings and verbal abuse. A similar incident was reported in St. Petersburg.
Uzbek officials emphasized that such conduct contradicts the “close and friendly” nature of Uzbek-Russian relations and called for a transparent review of law enforcement actions.
Uzbekistan’s Migration Agency stated that it is closely monitoring the situation. It confirmed that a small number of Uzbek citizens were detained due to documentation issues and are currently undergoing further checks.
