What's happened
Russia has ordered the transfer of Domodedovo Airport's ownership to the state after court rulings. Meanwhile, authorities continue to target opposition figures, sentencing Navalny allies and arresting critics for dissent and alleged collaboration with foreign entities, amid ongoing repression of civil liberties.
What's behind the headline?
The recent seizure of Domodedovo Airport exemplifies Russia's broader strategy of consolidating control over strategic assets amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The court's immediate transfer of ownership to the state signals a move to eliminate private influence over critical infrastructure. Meanwhile, the sentencing of Navalny allies and the arrest of opposition figures like Shlosberg and Shlosberg's house arrest highlight the Kremlin's relentless crackdown on dissent. These actions serve to suppress political opposition and silence criticism, especially as Russia faces international scrutiny over its actions in Ukraine. The targeting of individuals accused of collaborating with foreign entities or spreading 'undesirable' information underscores the regime's efforts to control narratives and stifle civil liberties. This pattern of repression is likely to persist, further entrenching authoritarian control and diminishing space for political opposition within Russia and its neighboring regions.
What the papers say
The Moscow Times reports the court-ordered transfer of ownership of DME Holding, a conglomerate valued at over $12.7 billion, to the Russian state, with accusations against its owners for transferring profits abroad. The same publication details the ongoing repression of opposition figures, including the in absentia sentencing of Leonid Volkov to 18 years and the house arrest of Yelena Shlosberg, both linked to Navalny's movement. Al Jazeera highlights the conviction of critic Yelena Orlova for collaborating with an FSB officer, illustrating the crackdown on perceived foreign influence. The Independent covers the sentencing of Volkov on multiple charges, emphasizing the political nature of these prosecutions and the broader suppression of dissent since Russia's invasion of Ukraine. These contrasting reports underscore the regime's focus on consolidating power and silencing opposition through legal and extralegal means.
How we got here
Russia's government has increased control over strategic assets and civil society since its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The nationalization of Domodedovo Airport reflects broader efforts to consolidate state control over key infrastructure. Simultaneously, authorities have intensified repression of opposition, targeting Navalny supporters and critics under laws against extremism and foreign influence.
Go deeper
Common question
-
What is Happening with Russia's Crackdown on Dissent?
Recent actions by Russian authorities have intensified concerns about the state of dissent in the country. With key opposition figures facing severe repercussions, many are left wondering about the implications for political freedom in Russia. Below, we explore the latest developments and their broader significance.
More on these topics
-
Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in