What's happened
Yevgeny Urlashov, a former gubernatorial candidate, was released from prison and plans to live in Moscow, distancing himself from politics. Sergei Udaltsov, a prominent opposition leader, received a prison sentence for supporting activists linked to terrorism, amid ongoing crackdowns on dissent in Russia.
What's behind the headline?
The recent sentences of Urlashov and Udaltsov underscore Russia's ongoing suppression of political opposition. Urlashov's release and his disinterest in politics suggest a possible shift in his personal stance, but Udaltsov's hunger strike indicates resistance among opposition leaders. The use of criminal charges against activists, often linked to terrorism or extremism, continues to serve as a tool for silencing dissent. This pattern consolidates the Kremlin's control, making political activism increasingly perilous. The international community's response remains limited, and these developments will likely entrench authoritarian practices, reducing space for opposition and civil society in Russia. The long-term impact will be a further erosion of political pluralism and increased repression of dissenting voices.
What the papers say
The Moscow Times reports Urlashov's release and his plans to stay in Moscow, noting his disinterest in politics and the political context of his imprisonment. The same outlet details Udaltsov's recent sentencing, his previous activism, and his decision to go on a hunger strike, emphasizing the ongoing crackdown on opposition figures. AFP and The Independent provide additional context, highlighting Udaltsov's history of opposition activism and the broader pattern of repression following Russia's actions in Ukraine. These sources collectively illustrate the persistent use of legal and extralegal measures to suppress dissent, with some commentators viewing these cases as politically motivated rather than judicially justified.
How we got here
Urlashov was imprisoned in 2016 after being convicted of extorting a bribe, a case seen by some as politically motivated due to his opposition stance. Udaltsov has a history of opposition activism, including protests against Putin and support for Soviet nostalgia, which has led to multiple arrests and convictions amid Russia's crackdown on dissent following its invasion of Ukraine.
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Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as President of Russia since 2012, previously holding the position from 1999 until 2008.
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Sergei Stanislavovich Udaltsov is a Russian left-wing political activist. He is the unofficial leader of the Vanguard of Red Youth. In 2011 and 2012, he helped lead a series of protests against Vladimir Putin.