RUSSIA FIRSTHAND
An independent citizen diplomacy program
for America’s emerging leaders.
NEXT TRIP:
Jun. 15 – 22, 2025
2022 TRIP THEMES:
Fall: The Far East & Asia-Pacific

Providing unparalleled insight
into modern Russia.

Founded in 2018, Russia Firsthand is a one-of-a-kind program that connects outstanding American students and recent graduates interested in Russia with the country's entrepreneurs, lawmakers, diplomats, journalists, scholars, clergymen, and young leaders.

Through a week-long immersive experience, the program is designed to help future decision makers gain a broad and nuanced understanding of today's Russia, including its culture, society, business climate, national security posture, foreign policy, and the hot button issues that plague its relations with the United States.

Before applying for the program, be sure to read all the information provided on this page.
ONLINE APPLICATION FORM
Key facts
about the program
Independent and Non-affiliated
We don't accept money from or affiliate ourselves with any government. This program was created and is administered by a U.S.-based NGO, the American Council for U.S.-Russia Engagement (AmCURE).
Private and tailored
We select between five and fifteen qualified participants for each trip, focusing on individual interests and adjusting the program content based on each group's background.
Authentic and engaging
Participants take part in on- and off-the-record candid discussions with policy makers and opinion shapers on a wide range of issues and trends.
Exciting and fun!
Informative meetings are coupled with cultural excursions and free time aside for exploring tourist attractions, regional arts, and the local nightlife scene.
Feedback
  • Ryan Sung
    Princeton University
    The Russia Firsthand program was an eye-opening experience like no other. The opportunities to meet high-level officials, experts in different fields, and experience Russian culture are unparalleled. I can say with confidence that the program prepares participants to engage in US-Russia dialogue on a scale that I would have not imagined possible. I feel very grateful to have had the chance to partake in this amazing opportunity, and encourage anyone with a deep-rooted or newfound curiosity in Russia or US-Russia relations to participate!
  • Luke Minton
    Harvard University
    Going to Russia through this program was a life-changing experience. Even though I had already studied some Russian in school, the opportunity to meet Russian and American leaders who work in the region brought Russian culture, politics, and economics to life far more than any classroom study ever could. An amazing program, whether you're an aspiring Russia expert or looking to develop a new interest.
  • Jacob Bosen
    The Institute of World Politics
    The Russia Firsthand Program gave me the opportunity to meet with key Russian decision makers and learn about their perspectives on US-Russian relations. It is a program that will expose you to viewpoints that you certainly won’t hear about at your university or from the media.
  • Dania Torres
    Dartmouth University
    Through Russia Firsthand, I had the unique opportunity to engage with leaders in Russian businesses, politics, academia, science, and the arts. Never a dull moment, this experience has reinforced my faith in citizen diplomacy.
  • Julian
    University of Washington
    The program offers a wholly unique chance to engage in discussions with Russian officials on the past, present, and future of US-Russia relations. As a Political Science student who has written about US-Russia relations, the Russia Firsthand experience has been instrumental in developing my expertise in this area. Those who participate will leave with a refined understanding of Russia and a lasting desire to go back.
Blog

US Chamber of Commerce in Russia pushes for easing sanctions in key sectors

2025-05-01 23:27
Originally reported by RBK.

The American Chamber of Commerce in Russia is drafting a comprehensive report urging the US government to lift sanctions that have severely impacted investment, aviation, finance, and trade, according to Chamber President and CEO Robert Agee.

Speaking to RBK, Agee revealed that the Chamber is finalizing a "white paper" — a policy recommendation document — outlining the struggles American businesses have faced over the past three years due to US sanctions.

“We are now preparing a so-called white paper for the US government, which I hope to present to the United States. It is an analysis, which has been conducted for many months, about what problems American companies have faced over the past three years, and from which sanctions they have suffered the most,” Agee explained.

A key priority in the report is the removal of aviation-related sanctions, particularly those restricting spare parts and aircraft maintenance. “This is less of a business wish and more of a humanitarian necessity, as ordinary citizens suffer first of all,” Agee emphasized.

The Chamber is also advocating for the lifting of investment bans on American companies, which Agee says have discouraged US businesses from engaging with the Russian market. Additionally, the report highlights the unintended consequences of sanctions on luxury goods, including cosmetics. Many US firms have lost market share in this sector, he noted.

Another critical point in the proposal is the call to lift financial sanctions on Russian banks, which have disrupted cross-border transactions. “Such a solution will reduce the cost of doing business for both Russian, American and other foreign companies. Because of the current restrictions, the cost of doing business has increased several times,” Agee stated.

The Chamber has also partnered with the Franco-Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industry to launch the “Two Continents Initiative,” aiming to coordinate a joint stance on sanctions relief.

While the white paper is still in the works, Agee hopes its findings will reach U.S. decision-makers and spark a reassessment of economic restrictions that, in his view, are harming both businesses and consumers alike.