Since February 24, 2022, USRF has helped many civil society activists relocate to the countries where they could continue their work. The Foundation has supported a number of civil society initiatives organized by Russians in these countries. USRF's grants allowed pro-democracy Russians to better adjust to their host countries and continue their professional activities. USRF's support included psychological help, legal advice, and temporary shelter.

“Among those leaving Russia are human rights defenders, political and civil activists, independent journalists, bloggers, scientists, environmentalists, and others who are civically active. According to various estimates, in recent years, about 10,000 civil society actors have fled Russia—and that number is undoubtedly higher now since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Unlike past waves of émigrés, many of today’s self-exiles appear intent on returning to Russia rather than seeking to integrate into their host societies. The large number of Russian civil society actors leaving Russia provides an opportunity for the United States and Europe to support these individuals and groups, especially through steps designed to enable these actors to sustain their work from outside of Russia” — Supporting Russian Civil Society: A Report of the Transatlantic Forum on Russia