I'm German so take this for whatever that means. As long as you're not literally working on software for the Russian military or police apparatus, I don't thin

I'm German so take this for whatever that means. As long as you're not literally working on software for the Russian military or police apparatus, I don't think it's in anyone's right to condemn you for not leaving the country. Especially if you have friends and family and a stable income there. However it sounds like moving would be an option for you and in my experience Russian software developers have a positive reputation in most of Europe, especially if they are fluent in English or the local language. If you are interested in the global market (i.e. the Western hemisphere - Asia and Africa is likely less of a problem), moving might be advantageous if only due to the sanctions and the strained relations that will still follow them whenever they are lifted. "I'm from Russia" is less of a deal-breaker than "I'm based in Russia" for the foreseeable future. It's perfectly fine to continue maintaining your Russian social circle and your friendships, after leaving the country. As for business relationships, that's probably more limited and more likely to ruffle some feathers and may run into problems with the sanctions. It's also worth considering that Russia is cut off from European and North American banking and most countries have limits on how much cash you can take with you or bring into the country. It sounds like your concerns are more motivated by pragmatism than principles. This is fine, but it's something you should be aware of when considering advice. Your environment shapes your perception but your principles only develop over time and often require serious reflection and may even end up in conflict with your environment. In the meantime I would suggest weighing the pros and cons but limiting the list to tangible factors that directly affect you as that's what actually motivates you right now. So, stop thinking about it as a question of ethics but rather of comfort. It's also not about reputation but rather about business opportunities.