Lower house of Russia's Federal Assembly; reacts to Kremlin policy
The Moscow Times reports Vyacheslav Markhayev, a Communist Party Duma member, has publicly criticized Russia’s ruling elite ahead of September elections, calling for a public plan to end the special military operation. He warns of social explosion and holds authorities responsible as wealth gaps widen. The Guardian offers broader international context, noting a strongman leadership facing an intractable conflict with costly casualties and a faltering war effort.