A stream of Russians who flocked to Istanbul on Saturday expressed personal relief but also concern for the safety of their loved ones after the Kremlin announced partial mobilization for the war in Ukraine.

The price of some tickets from Moscow soared tenfold after President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday announced Russia’s first conscription of men of military age since World War II.

Those carrying hastily packed belongings refused to give their full names for fear of retaliation from Russian police against those still at home.

But all the fears described have not been felt since the first days of Russia’s February 24 invasion of its Western-backed neighbor.

“We spoke to our friends and many are thinking about leaving,” said Daria, 22.

“Not everyone wanted to leave in February. The September 21 decision forced many to reconsider.”

Her husband Andrei, 23, said he had been thinking about leaving since the first days of the war.

The mobilization was the last straw.

“A lot of people have decided to leave now,” he said.

But Andrei also feared that speaking to reporters could cause problems for his family and friends back home.

“Yes, I think that the things I’m about to say to you – I’m worried there might be a punishment,” he said, standing next to a huge suitcase.

“The laws (in Russia) are applied very loosely. If they want, they will find a reason to punish you.”

Putin’s mobilization order aims to replenish the Russian military with hundreds of thousands of men after a series of setbacks that appear to have turned the tide in the seven-month war.

Turkey, a popular holiday destination for many Russians, is among the few countries that still offer flights from Russia.

Russians can also enter Turkey without a travel visa, which makes last-minute trips much easier.

Flights to Turkey sold out almost immediately after Putin’s televised announcement.

Recent tickets sold by popular Russian travel sites have skyrocketed due to rising demand, making the flight too expensive for many.

Turkish Airlines began using larger aircraft on its Russia services, switching to wide-body Boeing 777s as it was unable to schedule more flights immediately.

“Turkey is our intermediate point. We are here temporarily because there is a risk that the borders will be closed for good,” Daria said.

“But that’s not certain and nobody really knows.”

Sasha, a 48-year-old company manager, said he knew people who tried to escape but couldn’t.

“I think many people would like to leave Russia, but there are very few flights,” he told AFP at the airport.

Sasha said it was difficult to gauge the true mood of Russians after the mobilization order because some still supported the war and were ready to fight.

“At the moment there is no consensus in Russia. Some people support Putin, others don’t support him,” he said.

“It depends on their view of the war and their philosophy.”

He added that many are too afraid to speak their mind.

“Of course we feel under pressure. There is a facial surveillance system in Russia. And when someone sees your face, it’s very easy to tell who you are,” Sasha said.

“This interview could be interpreted as bad for the Russian army. In the future, people who give such an interview could face problems.”

Andrei said that now he is particularly worried about one of his childhood friends.

“My friend couldn’t buy a ticket because it already cost 400,000 rubles ($7,000). It’s ten times more expensive than before,” he said.