Russia

India Defends Domestic Firms Amid New U.S. Sanctions Over Russia Ties

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New Delhi, India — The Indian government has responded to new sanctions imposed by the United States, which target several Indian entities accused of aiding Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine. Officials from the Ministry of External Affairs emphasized that the companies and individuals penalized have not breached any national legislation. According to the US State Department, the punitive measures affect 19 Indian firms and two individuals allegedly engaged in the provision of materials and technologies that bolster Russia’s military capabilities amidst the ongoing war in Ukraine. The US asserts these actions as part of its … Read more

Russia Intensifies Crackdown on Civil Liberties with Harsh Legal Measures, Human Rights Watch Reports

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Moscow, Russia — In a sweeping crackdown that signals worsening conditions for civil liberties, Russia has increasingly wielded repressive laws against political opposition, activists, and critics, according to reports from international human rights organizations. These groups have expressed alarm over what they describe as a systematic approach to stifling dissent and smothering the civic freedoms of Russian citizens. Over the past few years, the Russian government has enacted a series of legislative measures that empower authorities to target individuals and organizations that are seen as threats to national security. These laws, often broad in scope … Read more

Disgraced City Councilor Flees to Russia, Joins Russian Army Before Trial on Child Pornography Charges

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Holyoke, Massachusetts – Wilmer Puello-Mota, a former city councilor, has reportedly evaded his trial on child pornography charges by fleeing the country. Puello-Mota, who had aspirations for a political career, believed that the criminal charges had ruined his life, according to his lawyer David Cicilline. Fearing a bleak future in his hometown, Puello-Mota opted to join the Russian army instead. The case has gained global attention after a video surfaced, showing Puello-Mota signing a contract to join the Russian armed services. Puello-Mota had been facing charges of possession of child pornography after police discovered explicit … Read more

German Citizen Arrested in Russia for Carrying Cannabis-Infused Gummy Bears: Another Case of Moscow’s Strict Stance on International Travelers

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ST. PETERSBURG, Russia — Moscow’s strict stance on international travelers caught with cannabis on Russian soil has once again led to the arrest of a foreign citizen. This time, a German man found himself in custody after Russian authorities discovered cannabis-infused gummy bears in his luggage at Pulkovo Airport. Identified as 38-year-old Patrick Schobel, the man was detained late last month and is expected to remain in custody until at least March 15. According to the Russian Federal Customs Service, Schobel had flown from Hamburg, Germany, to St. Petersburg via a connecting flight in Istanbul. … Read more