What's happened
The Russian government is intensifying efforts to target exiled dissidents, with new legislation allowing prosecutors to seek the arrest of Russian citizens abroad. This follows a broader crackdown on dissent since the Ukraine invasion, leading to increased fears among emigres of potential persecution and extradition.
Why it matters
What the papers say
The Moscow Times reports on the new legislation introduced by the United Russia party, which aims to facilitate the arrest of Russian citizens abroad. This move is seen as part of a broader strategy to suppress dissent, as highlighted by the significant number of political prisoners and the crackdown on anti-war protests. In contrast, The Independent details the personal stories of exiled journalists and activists, emphasizing the psychological toll of living under constant threat from the Kremlin. The New York Times underscores the global implications of Russia's actions, noting that even low-profile dissenters are not safe from surveillance and potential abduction. Together, these sources illustrate a concerning trend of increasing repression against Russian dissidents, both domestically and internationally.
How we got here
Since the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the Kremlin has suppressed dissent, detaining nearly 20,000 individuals for anti-war protests. Many prominent critics have fled, prompting the government to view all wartime emigres as potential targets for prosecution.
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