The story of Lyubov Moiseevna Bikmukhametova, who has been stranded at Istanbul Airport, highlights the complexities of migration issues stemming from the dissolution of the Soviet Union. A Ukrainian citizen, Bikmukhametova has been at the airport since October 9, struggling to return to Russia.
A Life Story from the Soviet Era to Today
Born in 1954 in Ryazan, Soviet Union, Bikmukhametova spent her life moving across various regions of the USSR after marrying a Muslim Tatar officer in the Soviet military. Her husband served as a strategic bomber pilot for many years.
During the USSR’s collapse, her husband’s last assignment was in Poltava, Ukraine. With the Soviet Union’s disintegration, Bikmukhametova had to take Ukrainian citizenship. Her husband, refusing to join the Ukrainian military, moved to Russia, followed shortly by Bikmukhametova and their children. However, she chose to retain her Ukrainian passport instead of applying for Russian citizenship.
Barriers to Returning to Russia
Until 2021, Bikmukhametova had never returned to Ukraine. That year, she traveled via Istanbul to handle property paperwork in Ukraine. After completing her tasks, she attempted to return to Moscow but was denied entry due to visa issues. Deported back to Turkey, she found herself stranded at Istanbul Airport.
Over a Month at the Airport
Since October 9, Bikmukhametova has been living in the departure area of Istanbul Airport. With the help of airport staff, she received a few days of hotel accommodation but continues to endure challenging conditions:
“I’ve been here for over a month. I don’t go anywhere; I’m always in the same place. My legs swell because of this. I sleep here at night. I’m grateful to the airport staff who are doing their best to help me.”
“I Want to Return to My Husband”
Bikmukhametova shared that her husband, living in a care home in Ryazan, Russia, is battling health issues. She made a heartfelt plea to authorities:
“My husband is in a care home. I was supposed to pick him up on October 9. I ask for permission to enter Russia and reunite with my husband. If granted, I am ready to apply for Russian citizenship.”
A Struggle and a Humanitarian Crisis
The story of Lyubov Moiseevna Bikmukhametova is a poignant example of the modern world’s complex migration and citizenship challenges. Now in her 70s, she dreams of reuniting with her husband and starting anew in Russia. Yet, her battle against legal and bureaucratic hurdles continues.
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