Russia said on Monday that it was expelling an Italian diplomat as a reponse to "unfriendly" removal of two Russian officials from Rome over espionage scandal. Russian foreign ministry said it had summoned Italian ambassador and had informed him that Russia was declaring Rome's naval attache in Moscow a "persona non grata". The naval attache would have 24 hours to leave the country.

Last month, Rome had announced that it was expelling two Russian officials after an Italian navy captain was caught by police selling confidential military documents to a Russian embassy official.

The navy officer, Walter Biot, worked in the office of the Chief of the Defence Staff, and reportedly passed on dossiers to the Russians in return for 5,000 euros (around $6,000).

Italy immediately condemned expulsion of its naval attache in Moscow. It described it as "unfounded and unjust because it is in retaliation for a legitimate measure taking by the Italian authorities in defence of their own security".

Recent weeks have seen a wave of expulsions of Russian officials from European countries and the United States over claims of hacking and espionage. Tensions have spiralled in particular with Czech Republic.

Prague had accused Russian military intelligence of being behind a deadly explosion at an ammunition depot in 2014

Recent weeks have seen a wave of expulsions of Russian officials from European countries and the United States over claims of hacking and espionage.

Prague expelled 18 Russian diplomats over the allegations and Moscow retaliated by kicking out 20 Czech embassy staff.

Romania said Monday it would expel a Russian diplomat in solidarity with the Czech Republic, following similar decisions taken by Slovakia and the Baltic states.

Russia said on Monday that it was expelling an Italian diplomat as a reponse to "unfriendly" removal of two Russian officials from Rome over espionage scandal. Russian foreign ministry said it had summoned Italian ambassador and had informed him that Russia was declaring Rome's naval attache in Moscow a "persona non grata".

Russia said on Monday that it was expelling an Italian diplomat as a reponse to "unfriendly" removal of two Russian officials from Rome over espionage scandal. Russian foreign ministry said it had summoned Italian ambassador and had informed him that Russia was declaring Rome's naval attache in Moscow a "persona non grata". The naval attache would have 24 hours to leave the country. Last month, Rome had announced that it was expelling two Russian officials after an Italian navy captain was caught by police selling confidential military documents to a Russian embassy official. The navy officer, Walter Biot, worked in the office of the Chief of the Defence Staff, and reportedly passed on dossiers to the Russians in return for 5,000 euros (around $6,000). Italy immediately condemned expulsion of its naval attache in Moscow. It described it as "unfounded and unjust because it is in retaliation for a legitimate measure taking by the Italian authorities in defence of their own security". Recent weeks have seen a wave of expulsions of Russian officials from European countries and the United States over claims of hacking and espionage. Tensions have spiralled in particular with Czech Republic. Prague had accused Russian military intelligence of being behind a deadly explosion at an ammunition depot in 2014 Recent weeks have seen a wave of expulsions of Russian officials from European countries and the United States over claims of hacking and espionage. Prague expelled 18 Russian diplomats over the allegations and Moscow retaliated by kicking out 20 Czech embassy staff. Romania said Monday it would expel a Russian diplomat in solidarity with the Czech Republic, following similar decisions taken by Slovakia and the Baltic states.

Russia expels Italian diplomat in Moscow

Moscow City court is expected to rule on a request from Moscow prosecutor to officially outlaw Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) as an extremist organisation.

FBK is the backbone of Navalny's political movement. The ruling is expected to come in a few days.

If the ruling is delivered, it will give the authorities legal power to arrest and jail Navalny's supporters and block bank accounts just for being activists in the foundation.

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Supporters of Navalny are defiant in the face of the possible ruling.

Leonid Volkov, chief of staff of Navalny's team, said on Sunday the group would continue its work, including investigations into corruption.

"We are not going to give up," Volkov said in an online broadcast. Volkov lives in Lithuania.

Navalny was jailed in February for 2-1/2 years on charges he called politically motivated. On Friday, he said he would start gradually ending a hunger strike after getting medical care.

Navalny's allies have pressed ahead with his "smart voting" strategy, supporting politicians outside of pro-Kremlin United Russia party they believe to be well placed to beat the ruling party candidates and urging Russians to vote for them.

Russians are set to vote in general elections in September.

(With inputs from agencies)

Moscow City court is expected to rule on a request from Moscow prosecutor to officially outlaw Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) as an extremist organisation.

Moscow City court is expected to rule on a request from Moscow prosecutor to officially outlaw Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) as an extremist organisation. FBK is the backbone of Navalny's political movement. The ruling is expected to come in a few days. If the ruling is delivered, it will give the authorities legal power to arrest and jail Navalny's supporters and block bank accounts just for being activists in the foundation. × Supporters of Navalny are defiant in the face of the possible ruling. Leonid Volkov, chief of staff of Navalny's team, said on Sunday the group would continue its work, including investigations into corruption. "We are not going to give up," Volkov said in an online broadcast. Volkov lives in Lithuania. Navalny was jailed in February for 2-1/2 years on charges he called politically motivated. On Friday, he said he would start gradually ending a hunger strike after getting medical care. Navalny's allies have pressed ahead with his "smart voting" strategy, supporting politicians outside of pro-Kremlin United Russia party they believe to be well placed to beat the ruling party candidates and urging Russians to vote for them. Russians are set to vote in general elections in September. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian court may declare Alexei Navalny's group an extremist outfit

Russia on Sunday said it would retaliate against the Czech government's "unprecedented" decision to expel 18 Russian diplomats identified as secret agents and summoned the Czech ambassador.

"We will take retaliatory measures that will force the authors of this provocation to understand their full responsibility for destroying the basis of normal relations between our countries," the Russian foreign ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

The ministry did not specify which measures would be taken, but called the Czech announcement "absurd".

A source told AFP on Sunday that the Czech ambassador in Russia had been summoned to the foreign ministry.

The Russian foreign ministry did not release any details.

On Saturday, Czech authorities said they would expel 18 Russian diplomats identified by local intelligence as secret agents of the Russian SVR and GRU security services suspected of involvement in a 2014 explosion.

Czech police also said they were seeking two Russians in connection with the blast that killed two people, and who carried passports used by suspects in the attempted poisoning of former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal in 2018.

Moscow called the announcement a "hostile step" and alleged it bore a "trace" of involvement by Washington.

"In their desire to please the United States against the background of recent US sanctions against Russia, Czech authorities in this respect even outdid their masters from across the pond," the ministry added.

Earlier this week the United States announced sanctions and the expulsion of 10 Russian diplomats in retaliation for what Washington said was the Kremlin's US election interference, a massive cyber attack and other hostile activity.

Russia on Sunday said it would retaliate against the Czech government's "unprecedented" decision to expel 18 Russian diplomats identified as secret agents and summoned the Czech ambassador.

Russia on Sunday said it would retaliate against the Czech government's "unprecedented" decision to expel 18 Russian diplomats identified as secret agents and summoned the Czech ambassador. "We will take retaliatory measures that will force the authors of this provocation to understand their full responsibility for destroying the basis of normal relations between our countries," the Russian foreign ministry said in a statement. The ministry did not specify which measures would be taken, but called the Czech announcement "absurd". A source told AFP on Sunday that the Czech ambassador in Russia had been summoned to the foreign ministry. The Russian foreign ministry did not release any details. On Saturday, Czech authorities said they would expel 18 Russian diplomats identified by local intelligence as secret agents of the Russian SVR and GRU security services suspected of involvement in a 2014 explosion. Czech police also said they were seeking two Russians in connection with the blast that killed two people, and who carried passports used by suspects in the attempted poisoning of former Russian double agent Sergei Skripal in 2018. Moscow called the announcement a "hostile step" and alleged it bore a "trace" of involvement by Washington. "In their desire to please the United States against the background of recent US sanctions against Russia, Czech authorities in this respect even outdid their masters from across the pond," the ministry added. Earlier this week the United States announced sanctions and the expulsion of 10 Russian diplomats in retaliation for what Washington said was the Kremlin's US election interference, a massive cyber attack and other hostile activity.

Moscow summons Czech envoy after 'unprecedented' expulsions

For decades, Russia was America's enemy number 1. But with the rise of China, the U.S-Russia rivalry has entered a new phase - with China in Moscow's corner as an undeclared ally. WION's Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Can Russia & US bury the hatchet?

Stoltenberg called Moscow's recent troop deployment the biggest military buildup since the conflict in eastern Ukraine began.

'Russia must end military buildup': NATO

Moscow has accused the United States and other NATO countries of turning Ukraine into a "powder keg ". Russia also added that countries are increasing their arms supplies to Ukraine.

Moscow accuses US, NATO nations of turning Ukraine into 'powder keg'

US has now issued warning to Russia over its troop build-up. United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken has warned Russia of consequences if it escalates tensions on the Ukrainian border.

United States Secretary of State Antony Blinken issues warning to Moscow

Weather report from Moscow streets was suddenly interrupted by a four-legged heckler. A dog stole the microphone from the reporter of a Russian broadcaster. A golden retriever jumped at Nadezhda Serezhkina, grabbed the microphone and ran away - during LIVE broadcast.

Dog steals microphone & hearts

India and Russia are discussing the possibility of ‘additional’ production of Russian military equipment in India, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said at a news conference on Tuesday while on a visit to New Delhi.

Lavrov and India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar&nbsp;assessed ‘positively’ the economic cooperation between New Delhi and Moscow and noted new opportunities in the Russian far east during the discussion.&nbsp;

In a joint appearance with Lavrov, Jaishankar said they both talked about connectivity, including the International North-South Transport Corridor and Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor.

Earlier in the day, Lavrov, who is on a two-day visit, held delegation-level talks with Jaishankar. Much of the discussion between the two ministers covered the preparations for President Vladimir Putin’s visit for the annual summit to be held in India later this year.&nbsp;

"Our bilateral cooperation remains energetic and forward-looking. We talked about the longstanding partnership in the nuclear space and defence sectors. We assess positively our economic cooperation noting new opportunities in the Russian far east. We spoke of connectivity including the International North-South Transport Corridor and Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor," Jaishankar said.

"We also found an appetite for greater investment in each other by both the countries. Russian support for our Gaganyaan programme has progressed for which deeply appreciate. Our defence requirement in the past year was expeditiously addressed," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

India and Russia are discussing the possibility of ‘additional’ production of Russian military equipment in India, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said at a news conference on Tuesday while on a visit to New Delhi.

India and Russia are discussing the possibility of ‘additional’ production of Russian military equipment in India, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said at a news conference on Tuesday while on a visit to New Delhi. Lavrov and India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar assessed ‘positively’ the economic cooperation between New Delhi and Moscow and noted new opportunities in the Russian far east during the discussion. In a joint appearance with Lavrov, Jaishankar said they both talked about connectivity, including the International North-South Transport Corridor and Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor. Earlier in the day, Lavrov, who is on a two-day visit, held delegation-level talks with Jaishankar. Much of the discussion between the two ministers covered the preparations for President Vladimir Putin’s visit for the annual summit to be held in India later this year. "Our bilateral cooperation remains energetic and forward-looking. We talked about the longstanding partnership in the nuclear space and defence sectors. We assess positively our economic cooperation noting new opportunities in the Russian far east. We spoke of connectivity including the International North-South Transport Corridor and Chennai-Vladivostok Maritime Corridor," Jaishankar said. "We also found an appetite for greater investment in each other by both the countries. Russian support for our Gaganyaan programme has progressed for which deeply appreciate. Our defence requirement in the past year was expeditiously addressed," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

India, Russia discussing Moscow’s military manufacturing in India: Lavrov

In Moscow, you can now pay with your face. Several Cafes & supermarkets are adopting this new technology. But how does facial recognition really work & what are the security risks?

Gravitas: The future of shopping

Russia's ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov arrived in Moscow on Sunday after being recalled for emergency consultations over the worst crisis in relations with the United States in years.

Moscow recalls its envoy to US for emergency consultation after 'killer' row

Russia's ambassador to the United States landed in Moscow on Sunday after being recalled for emergency consultations over the worst crisis in relations with the United States in years.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden on television earlier this week called the Russian leader a 'killer' spurring a terse quip from Vladimir Putin who responded that, 'it takes one to know one'.&nbsp;

The exchange pushed diplomatic relations to a new low even after Moscow's ties with Washington were already at rock bottom over election meddling allegations and the Kremlin's decision to jail opposition figure Alexei Navalny.&nbsp;

Russia's envoy to the United States Anatoly Antonov landed at Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport Sunday morning, Russian news agencies reported, after he was recalled last week over the spat. &nbsp;

Before takeoff in New York, he told agencies he would stay in Moscow 'as along as necessary' and that several meetings were scheduled.&nbsp;

"The Russian side has always stressed that we are interested in the development of Russian-American relations to the same extent as our American colleagues are," he was quoted as saying by TASS.&nbsp;

Moscow, which rarely returns ambassadors, last summoned its envoy in the US in 1998 over a Western bombing campaign in Iraq.&nbsp;

In 2014, after the US said Russia would face repercussions for annexation of Crimea from Ukraine, Putin held back on recalling Moscow's envoy, describing the measure as a 'last resort'. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russia's ambassador to the United States landed in Moscow on Sunday after being recalled for emergency consultations over the worst crisis in relations with the United States in years.

Russia's ambassador to the United States landed in Moscow on Sunday after being recalled for emergency consultations over the worst crisis in relations with the United States in years. US President Joe Biden on television earlier this week called the Russian leader a 'killer' spurring a terse quip from Vladimir Putin who responded that, 'it takes one to know one'. The exchange pushed diplomatic relations to a new low even after Moscow's ties with Washington were already at rock bottom over election meddling allegations and the Kremlin's decision to jail opposition figure Alexei Navalny. Russia's envoy to the United States Anatoly Antonov landed at Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport Sunday morning, Russian news agencies reported, after he was recalled last week over the spat. Before takeoff in New York, he told agencies he would stay in Moscow 'as along as necessary' and that several meetings were scheduled. "The Russian side has always stressed that we are interested in the development of Russian-American relations to the same extent as our American colleagues are," he was quoted as saying by TASS. Moscow, which rarely returns ambassadors, last summoned its envoy in the US in 1998 over a Western bombing campaign in Iraq. In 2014, after the US said Russia would face repercussions for annexation of Crimea from Ukraine, Putin held back on recalling Moscow's envoy, describing the measure as a 'last resort'. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia's US envoy Anatoly Antonov returns to Moscow after 'killer' row 

Russian investigators said on Thursday they will examine the lyrics of the country's entry to this year's Eurovision song contest after it angered conservative groups.

Manizha Sangin, known as Manizha, is set to perform the song "Russian Woman" at the annual competition in The Netherlands in&nbsp;May.

It praises the strength of Russian women, urging them to be more independent and to resist sexist views on beauty, age and bearing children.

The 29-year-old singer, who was born in ex-Soviet Tajikistan but now lives in Russia, is also an activist for women's and refugees' rights.

The Investigative Committee, which probes major crimes in Russia, said it had received a request from a public organisation to probe Manizha's entry for "possible illegal statements".

IC spokeswoman Svetlana Petrenko told news agency RIA Novosti that the request will be examined in accordance with the law.

The Russian Union of Orthodox Women published an open letter on Thursday calling for a ban on Manizha's music video and her participation at Eurovision.

The letter says her lyrics incite "hatred towards men, which undermines the foundations of a traditional family".

Earlier this week a site devoted to war veterans, "Veteranskie Vesti", published an open letter to IC head Alexander Bastrykin asking him to initiate criminal proceedings into the song.

The organisation describes itself as independent but partners with Russia's interior and defence ministries and the FSB security agency.

In the letter, the group said Manizha's pop tune "aims to seriously insult and humiliate the human dignity of Russian women".

Russian investigators said on Thursday they will examine the lyrics of the country's entry to this year's Eurovision song contest after it angered conservative groups.

Russian investigators said on Thursday they will examine the lyrics of the country's entry to this year's Eurovision song contest after it angered conservative groups. Manizha Sangin, known as Manizha, is set to perform the song "Russian Woman" at the annual competition in The Netherlands in May. It praises the strength of Russian women, urging them to be more independent and to resist sexist views on beauty, age and bearing children. The 29-year-old singer, who was born in ex-Soviet Tajikistan but now lives in Russia, is also an activist for women's and refugees' rights. The Investigative Committee, which probes major crimes in Russia, said it had received a request from a public organisation to probe Manizha's entry for "possible illegal statements". IC spokeswoman Svetlana Petrenko told news agency RIA Novosti that the request will be examined in accordance with the law. The Russian Union of Orthodox Women published an open letter on Thursday calling for a ban on Manizha's music video and her participation at Eurovision. The letter says her lyrics incite "hatred towards men, which undermines the foundations of a traditional family". Earlier this week a site devoted to war veterans, "Veteranskie Vesti", published an open letter to IC head Alexander Bastrykin asking him to initiate criminal proceedings into the song. The organisation describes itself as independent but partners with Russia's interior and defence ministries and the FSB security agency. In the letter, the group said Manizha's pop tune "aims to seriously insult and humiliate the human dignity of Russian women".

Moscow to probe 'Russian Woman' Eurovision song for 'illegal' lyrics

Russia's ambassador in the United States will depart Washington on Saturday (March 20) for urgent consultations in Moscow, the embassy has said.

Moscow's strained relationship with Washington hit a new low Wednesday when Russia called back its ambassador over comments made by US President Joe Biden who likened his Russian counterpart to a "killer".

Russia on Wednesday refuted US intelligence allegations that Putin had likely directed efforts to try to swing the 2020 presidential election in Donald Trump's favour, terming them baseless.

A 15-page American intelligence report, released on Tuesday, said several Trump's top lieutenants played into Moscow's hands by amplifying claims made against then-candidate Joe Biden by Russian-linked Ukrainian figures in the run-up to the November 3 presidential election.

"On March 20, Ambassador of Russia to the United States Anatoly Antonov is leaving for Moscow for consultations," the embassy said in a statement early Thursday.

Antonov planned to discuss "ways to rectify Russia-US ties, which are in crisis," it said. It added that "certain ill-considered statements of high-ranking US officials have put the already excessively confrontational relations under the threat of collapse."&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-calls-us-allegations-over-putin-directed-election-meddling-baseless-371074">Also read |&nbsp;Russia calls US allegations over Putin-directed election meddling 'baseless'</a>

In an interview with ABC News, Biden was asked about a US intelligence report that Russian President Vladimir Putin tried to harm his candidacy in the November 2020 election and promote that of Donald Trump.

Biden, to this end, said, "He will pay a price."

And when asked if he thought Putin, who has been accused of ordering the poisoning of opposition figure Alexei Navalny and other rivals, is a "killer," Biden said: "I do."

The comments were aired as the US Commerce Department announced it was toughening export restrictions imposed on Russia as punishment for jailed Kremlin critic Navalny's poisoning.

On Thursday, Konstantin Kosachev, a deputy head at the Russian parliament's upper house, said that Washington should apologise. "Such statements are unacceptable in any circumstances and will inevitably sharply damage our bilateral ties," he wrote on Facebook.

Washington is expected to impose sanctions on Moscow as soon as next week because of the allegations. Those sanctions could also address the cyber hack blamed on Russia that used US company SolarWinds Corp to penetrate American government networks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-recalls-washington-envoy-for-consultations-371250">Also read |&nbsp;Russia recalls Washington envoy for consultations&nbsp;</a>

Russia has already denied any involvement in that hack.

(with inputs from agencies)

Russia's ambassador in the United States will depart Washington on Saturday (March 20) for urgent consultations in Moscow, the embassy has said. Moscow's strained relationship with Washington hit a new low Wednesday when Russia called back its ambassador over comments made by US President Joe Biden who likened his Russian counterpart to a "killer".

Russia's ambassador in the United States will depart Washington on Saturday (March 20) for urgent consultations in Moscow, the embassy has said. Moscow's strained relationship with Washington hit a new low Wednesday when Russia called back its ambassador over comments made by US President Joe Biden who likened his Russian counterpart to a "killer". Russia on Wednesday refuted US intelligence allegations that Putin had likely directed efforts to try to swing the 2020 presidential election in Donald Trump's favour, terming them baseless. A 15-page American intelligence report, released on Tuesday, said several Trump's top lieutenants played into Moscow's hands by amplifying claims made against then-candidate Joe Biden by Russian-linked Ukrainian figures in the run-up to the November 3 presidential election. "On March 20, Ambassador of Russia to the United States Anatoly Antonov is leaving for Moscow for consultations," the embassy said in a statement early Thursday. Antonov planned to discuss "ways to rectify Russia-US ties, which are in crisis," it said. It added that "certain ill-considered statements of high-ranking US officials have put the already excessively confrontational relations under the threat of collapse." Also read | Russia calls US allegations over Putin-directed election meddling 'baseless' In an interview with ABC News, Biden was asked about a US intelligence report that Russian President Vladimir Putin tried to harm his candidacy in the November 2020 election and promote that of Donald Trump. Biden, to this end, said, "He will pay a price." And when asked if he thought Putin, who has been accused of ordering the poisoning of opposition figure Alexei Navalny and other rivals, is a "killer," Biden said: "I do." The comments were aired as the US Commerce Department announced it was toughening export restrictions imposed on Russia as punishment for jailed Kremlin critic Navalny's poisoning. On Thursday, Konstantin Kosachev, a deputy head at the Russian parliament's upper house, said that Washington should apologise. "Such statements are unacceptable in any circumstances and will inevitably sharply damage our bilateral ties," he wrote on Facebook. Washington is expected to impose sanctions on Moscow as soon as next week because of the allegations. Those sanctions could also address the cyber hack blamed on Russia that used US company SolarWinds Corp to penetrate American government networks. Also read | Russia recalls Washington envoy for consultations Russia has already denied any involvement in that hack. (with inputs from agencies)

Russia's Washington envoy to return to Moscow on March 20

Russia has rubbished reports that have emerged in the media that Moscow had tried to keep India out of the Afghan peace negotiations. Russian Embassy in India has said that such reports are based on ill-informed sources.

Russia denies trying to keep India out of Afghan peace talks

Moscow has restricted the use of Twitter by slowing down its speed for users in the country over what it said was the social media platform's failure to remove "illegal" content.

Russia's media watchdog Wednesday said in a statement its decision to restrict Twitter's services was intended to "protect Russian citizens" and force the company to comply with Russian law.&nbsp;

Russian authorities in recent years have been tightening control over the internet in the name of fighting extremism, terrorism and protecting minors.

The Roskomandzor watchdog said the disruption would begin on Wednesday and comprise a "slowdown in service speed" on all mobile users and 50 per cent of desktop users. It added that since 2017 it had sent Twitter "over 28,000 initial and repeated requests" to delete links to child pornography, information on drug use and calls for minors to commit suicide.

The watchdog warned that if Twitter ignores Russian law it could face further restrictions, including a complete ban in the country.

Twitter, like other US social media, is used widely inside Russia by allies of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny whose jailing last month prompted nationwide protests.

"The slowing down will be applied on a 100% of mobile devices and on 50% of non-mobile devices," the regulator said in a statement on its website.

"If (Twitter) continues to ignore the requirements of the law, the enforcement measures will be continued in line with the response regulations (all the way to blocking)," it said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-sues-google-facebook-twitter-for-not-deleting-protest-content-report-369132">Also read |&nbsp;Russia sues Google, Facebook, Twitter for not deleting protest content: Report</a>

Wednesday's move comes amid mounting efforts by Moscow to exert greater influence over US social media platforms and frustrations over what authorities say is their failure to follow Russian laws.

Moscow in recent months has put Western tech giants like Facebook and Twitter under increasing pressure for failing to take down calls to participate in anti-government demonstrations. It has already banned a number of websites that refused to cooperate with authorities, such as the video platform Dailymotion and professional networking website LinkedIn.

Last December, parliament's lower house backed big new fines on platforms that fail to delete banned content and another bill that would allow them to be restricted if they "discriminate" against Russian media.

In 2019, a law was passed for the development of a "sovereign internet" aimed at isolating Russia from the worldwide web, a move activists fear will tighten government control of cyberspace and stifle free speech.

(with inputs from agencies)

Moscow has restricted the use of Twitter by slowing down its speed for users in the country over what it said was the social media platform's failure to remove "illegal" content.

Moscow has restricted the use of Twitter by slowing down its speed for users in the country over what it said was the social media platform's failure to remove "illegal" content. Russia's media watchdog Wednesday said in a statement its decision to restrict Twitter's services was intended to "protect Russian citizens" and force the company to comply with Russian law. Russian authorities in recent years have been tightening control over the internet in the name of fighting extremism, terrorism and protecting minors. The Roskomandzor watchdog said the disruption would begin on Wednesday and comprise a "slowdown in service speed" on all mobile users and 50 per cent of desktop users. It added that since 2017 it had sent Twitter "over 28,000 initial and repeated requests" to delete links to child pornography, information on drug use and calls for minors to commit suicide. The watchdog warned that if Twitter ignores Russian law it could face further restrictions, including a complete ban in the country. Twitter, like other US social media, is used widely inside Russia by allies of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny whose jailing last month prompted nationwide protests. "The slowing down will be applied on a 100% of mobile devices and on 50% of non-mobile devices," the regulator said in a statement on its website. "If (Twitter) continues to ignore the requirements of the law, the enforcement measures will be continued in line with the response regulations (all the way to blocking)," it said. Also read | Russia sues Google, Facebook, Twitter for not deleting protest content: Report Wednesday's move comes amid mounting efforts by Moscow to exert greater influence over US social media platforms and frustrations over what authorities say is their failure to follow Russian laws. Moscow in recent months has put Western tech giants like Facebook and Twitter under increasing pressure for failing to take down calls to participate in anti-government demonstrations. It has already banned a number of websites that refused to cooperate with authorities, such as the video platform Dailymotion and professional networking website LinkedIn. Last December, parliament's lower house backed big new fines on platforms that fail to delete banned content and another bill that would allow them to be restricted if they "discriminate" against Russian media. In 2019, a law was passed for the development of a "sovereign internet" aimed at isolating Russia from the worldwide web, a move activists fear will tighten government control of cyberspace and stifle free speech. (with inputs from agencies)

Russia says disrupting Twitter over 'illegal' content

President Vladimir Putin called on Thursday for the internet in Russia to be bound by moral rules to stop society fraying and railed against what he said was its role in drawing children into opposition street protests, prostitution and drugs.

The comments come amid mounting efforts by Moscow to exert greater influence over U.S. social media giants and frustrations over what authorities say is their failure to follow Russian laws.

Last December, parliament`s lower house backed big new fines on platforms that fail to delete banned content and another bill that would allow U.S. social media giants to be restricted if they "discriminate" against Russian media.

"The internet has already penetrated into all spheres of our lives ... it must obey not just the laws of formal, legal rules, but also the moral laws of the society in which we live, otherwise this society will collapse from the inside," he said.

As tens of thousands rallied to protest the jailing of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny earlier this year, Moscow accused U.S. social networks of failing to take down fake posts about anti-Kremlin demonstrations earlier this year.

Authorities also accused the opposition of getting children to take part in unsanctioned opposition protests, something the opposition says is a deliberate smear and untrue.

"We encounter (online) child pornography, child prostitution, drug dealing where it is precisely children and teenagers who are the target audience," Putin said.

"Drawing them out onto the street to be hooligans, fight with the police, and then hiding behind the children, actually putting them in front," he continued in televised comments.

Separately on Thursday, the Vedomosti newspaper reported that the Russian government was discussing a possible new tax on global IT firms that use Russian data to analyse user behaviour and offer contextual advertising.

The funds gathered from the tax would be used to support domestic IT companies, it said. The measure was discussed at a government meeting with the IT industry last week that was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko, it said.

A decision on introducing the tax is expected by halfway through this year, Vedomosti cited an unnamed source at the meeting as saying.

President Vladimir Putin called on Thursday for the internet in Russia to be bound by moral rules to stop society fraying and railed against what he said was its role in drawing children into opposition street protests, prostitution and drugs.

President Vladimir Putin called on Thursday for the internet in Russia to be bound by moral rules to stop society fraying and railed against what he said was its role in drawing children into opposition street protests, prostitution and drugs. The comments come amid mounting efforts by Moscow to exert greater influence over U.S. social media giants and frustrations over what authorities say is their failure to follow Russian laws. Last December, parliament`s lower house backed big new fines on platforms that fail to delete banned content and another bill that would allow U.S. social media giants to be restricted if they "discriminate" against Russian media. "The internet has already penetrated into all spheres of our lives ... it must obey not just the laws of formal, legal rules, but also the moral laws of the society in which we live, otherwise this society will collapse from the inside," he said. As tens of thousands rallied to protest the jailing of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny earlier this year, Moscow accused U.S. social networks of failing to take down fake posts about anti-Kremlin demonstrations earlier this year. Authorities also accused the opposition of getting children to take part in unsanctioned opposition protests, something the opposition says is a deliberate smear and untrue. "We encounter (online) child pornography, child prostitution, drug dealing where it is precisely children and teenagers who are the target audience," Putin said. "Drawing them out onto the street to be hooligans, fight with the police, and then hiding behind the children, actually putting them in front," he continued in televised comments. Separately on Thursday, the Vedomosti newspaper reported that the Russian government was discussing a possible new tax on global IT firms that use Russian data to analyse user behaviour and offer contextual advertising. The funds gathered from the tax would be used to support domestic IT companies, it said. The measure was discussed at a government meeting with the IT industry last week that was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko, it said. A decision on introducing the tax is expected by halfway through this year, Vedomosti cited an unnamed source at the meeting as saying.

Putin calls for internet bound by moral rules, criticises opposition rallies

Jailed Russian opposition leader Alexy Navalny has been moved to an undisclosed location outside Moscow, which may be a prison camp his lawyer has said.

Kremlin critic Alexy Navalny has been moved to an undisclosed location

A Moscow appeal court has decided to uphold the Kremlin critic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/alexei-navalny">Alexei Navalny's</a> prison sentence.

The ruling was made after Navalny requested the judge to free him. "It would be better if you released me," he told the presiding judge. "I heard there had been such a ruling (from the ECHR)."

Have a look|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russia-celebrates-valentines-day-by-forming-human-chains-in-support-for-navalnys-wife-363675" hreflang="en">Russia celebrates Valentine's Day by forming human chains in support for Navalny's wife</a>

Navalny was asked to be in the court as he had failed to report to prison service last year and was instead present in Germany.

"I don't want to show off a lot, but the whole world knew where I was," Navalny said. "Once I'd recovered, I bought a plane ticket and came home."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-life-in-opposition-navalnys-path-from-gadfly-to-heroic-symbol-363536" hreflang="en">A life in opposition: Navalny’s path from gadfly to heroic symbol</a>

Navalny was recovering from a near-death experience after he was allegedly poisoned by the Kremlin last year.

Judge Dmitry Balashov rejected Navalny's appeal regarding the February 02 ruling which had turned a 2014 suspended sentence on embezzlement charges into real jail time.&nbsp;

The judge has decided to count the six weeks that Navalny was under house arrest as a part of his prison sentence. Pertaining to this, Navalny will now be imprisoned for nearly 2.5 years in a penal colony.

A Moscow appeal court has decided to uphold the Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's prison sentence. The ruling was made after Navalny requested the judge to free him.

A Moscow appeal court has decided to uphold the Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's prison sentence. The ruling was made after Navalny requested the judge to free him. "It would be better if you released me," he told the presiding judge. "I heard there had been such a ruling (from the ECHR)." Have a look| Russia celebrates Valentine's Day by forming human chains in support for Navalny's wife Navalny was asked to be in the court as he had failed to report to prison service last year and was instead present in Germany. "I don't want to show off a lot, but the whole world knew where I was," Navalny said. "Once I'd recovered, I bought a plane ticket and came home." Also read| A life in opposition: Navalny’s path from gadfly to heroic symbol Navalny was recovering from a near-death experience after he was allegedly poisoned by the Kremlin last year. Judge Dmitry Balashov rejected Navalny's appeal regarding the February 02 ruling which had turned a 2014 suspended sentence on embezzlement charges into real jail time. The judge has decided to count the six weeks that Navalny was under house arrest as a part of his prison sentence. Pertaining to this, Navalny will now be imprisoned for nearly 2.5 years in a penal colony.

Moscow appeal court upholds Alexei Navalny's prison sentence

The Kremlin's most prominent opponent <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/alexei-navalny">Alexei Navalny</a> faced two court decisions on Saturday that could seal a judge's ruling to jail him for several years after he returned to Russia following a poisoning attack.

A Moscow court was hearing Navalny's appeal against a decision this month to imprison him for nearly three years for violating the terms of a suspended sentence on embezzlement charges.

He was ordered on February 02 to serve time in a penal colony, for breaching the parole terms of the sentence while in Germany recovering from the poisoning.

Have a look|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russia-celebrates-valentines-day-by-forming-human-chains-in-support-for-navalnys-wife-363675" hreflang="en">Russia celebrates Valentine's Day by forming human chains in support for Navalny's wife</a>

As his appeal hearing began on Saturday, Navalny rejected the decision to jail him since he made no secret of his whereabouts in Germany and returned voluntarily to Russia.

"The whole question is, was I hiding or not hiding?" he told the court.

"I bought a ticket and told everyone: I'm going home... This is just absurd."

Even if Navalny wins his appeal Saturday, his victory could be short-lived.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-life-in-opposition-navalnys-path-from-gadfly-to-heroic-symbol-363536" hreflang="en">A life in opposition: Navalny’s path from gadfly to heroic symbol</a>

Prosecutors in a separate trial have called for him to be fined the equivalent of $13,000 for calling a World War II veteran a "traitor" on Twitter last year, with a verdict also expected Saturday.

They have also asked Navalny to be jailed on the same fraud conviction, saying his tweet referencing the veteran was posted during the probation period for the suspended sentence.

Supporters of the outspoken opposition figure say the rulings and several other cases against the 44-year-old are a pretext to silence his corruption exposes and quash his political ambitions.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-alexei-navalny-apart-from-being-putins-nightmare-361660" hreflang="en">Who is Alexei Navalny, apart from being Putin's nightmare?</a>

European court orders release

The 94-year-old veteran at the centre of the defamation trial appeared in a video that Navalny derided for promoting constitutional reforms, passed last year, that could allow President Vladimir Putin to stay in power until 2036.

A series of theatrical hearings in the case ended Tuesday with Navalny asking if the judge could recommend a recipe for pickles, since it is "pointless to talk about the law" with her.

Russia has come under increasing pressure to release Navalny since he was detained on arrival at a Moscow airport in January.

He had spent months recovering in Germany from the attack with Novichok that he blames on the Kremlin. Russia has repeatedly denied involvement.

The arrest sparked large protests across the country that saw more than 10,000 people detained, while the European Union threatened to impose new sanctions on Moscow.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putins-popularity-slips-as-alexei-navalnys-political-equity-rises-359520" hreflang="en">Putin's popularity slips as Alexei Navalny's political equity rises</a>

Europe's rights court ruled this week that Russia must immediately release Navalny, in a motion swiftly brushed aside by the justice ministry.

Navalny's allies believe Russia's non-compliance with the European Court of Human Rights ruling could lead to its expulsion from the Council of Europe — a broader grouping than the 27-member EU.

And it risks further exacerbating a crisis in Moscow's westward ties that began with the annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014.

EU member Lithuania's foreign ministry said Friday that a group of EU foreign ministers will meet with two top Navalny aides in Brussels on Sunday.

Navalny aides in talks with EU representatives this month urged the bloc to hit people close to Putin with sanctions.

Another Moscow court this week rejected Navalny's appeal against a fine of 3.3 million rubles ($44,649/36,825 euros) that he was ordered to pay a catering company in another defamation lawsuit.

Those charges were levelled at the opposition figure by businessman Yevgeny Prigozhin, nicknamed "Putin's chef" because his company Concord catered for the Kremlin.

The 59-year-old businessman, who is under US and European sanctions, has two pending cases against Navalny that will be considered in March.

The Kremlin's most prominent opponent Alexei Navalny faced two court decisions on Saturday that could seal a judge's ruling to jail him for several years after he returned to Russia following a poisoning attack.

The Kremlin's most prominent opponent Alexei Navalny faced two court decisions on Saturday that could seal a judge's ruling to jail him for several years after he returned to Russia following a poisoning attack. A Moscow court was hearing Navalny's appeal against a decision this month to imprison him for nearly three years for violating the terms of a suspended sentence on embezzlement charges. He was ordered on February 02 to serve time in a penal colony, for breaching the parole terms of the sentence while in Germany recovering from the poisoning. Have a look| Russia celebrates Valentine's Day by forming human chains in support for Navalny's wife As his appeal hearing began on Saturday, Navalny rejected the decision to jail him since he made no secret of his whereabouts in Germany and returned voluntarily to Russia. "The whole question is, was I hiding or not hiding?" he told the court. "I bought a ticket and told everyone: I'm going home... This is just absurd." Even if Navalny wins his appeal Saturday, his victory could be short-lived. Also read| A life in opposition: Navalny’s path from gadfly to heroic symbol Prosecutors in a separate trial have called for him to be fined the equivalent of $13,000 for calling a World War II veteran a "traitor" on Twitter last year, with a verdict also expected Saturday. They have also asked Navalny to be jailed on the same fraud conviction, saying his tweet referencing the veteran was posted during the probation period for the suspended sentence. Supporters of the outspoken opposition figure say the rulings and several other cases against the 44-year-old are a pretext to silence his corruption exposes and quash his political ambitions. Also read| Who is Alexei Navalny, apart from being Putin's nightmare? European court orders release The 94-year-old veteran at the centre of the defamation trial appeared in a video that Navalny derided for promoting constitutional reforms, passed last year, that could allow President Vladimir Putin to stay in power until 2036. A series of theatrical hearings in the case ended Tuesday with Navalny asking if the judge could recommend a recipe for pickles, since it is "pointless to talk about the law" with her. Russia has come under increasing pressure to release Navalny since he was detained on arrival at a Moscow airport in January. He had spent months recovering in Germany from the attack with Novichok that he blames on the Kremlin. Russia has repeatedly denied involvement. The arrest sparked large protests across the country that saw more than 10,000 people detained, while the European Union threatened to impose new sanctions on Moscow. Also read| Putin's popularity slips as Alexei Navalny's political equity rises Europe's rights court ruled this week that Russia must immediately release Navalny, in a motion swiftly brushed aside by the justice ministry. Navalny's allies believe Russia's non-compliance with the European Court of Human Rights ruling could lead to its expulsion from the Council of Europe — a broader grouping than the 27-member EU. And it risks further exacerbating a crisis in Moscow's westward ties that began with the annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in 2014. EU member Lithuania's foreign ministry said Friday that a group of EU foreign ministers will meet with two top Navalny aides in Brussels on Sunday. Navalny aides in talks with EU representatives this month urged the bloc to hit people close to Putin with sanctions. Another Moscow court this week rejected Navalny's appeal against a fine of 3.3 million rubles ($44,649/36,825 euros) that he was ordered to pay a catering company in another defamation lawsuit. Those charges were levelled at the opposition figure by businessman Yevgeny Prigozhin, nicknamed "Putin's chef" because his company Concord catered for the Kremlin. The 59-year-old businessman, who is under US and European sanctions, has two pending cases against Navalny that will be considered in March.

Navalny faces decisive rulings in Moscow legal marathon

A senior official in Moscow city transport said that the Russian capital plans to nearly quadruple the number of electric buses in the city in coming years and replace all buses running on petrol or diesel by 2030. Mosgortrans, which runs Moscow's vast bus and tram network, said its fleet of around 600 electric buses would be expanded by 400 vehicles by the year-end. Another 420 buses will be added in the following year and then 850. This will put number of electric buses in the fleet to more than 2000.

"Every year the plan will be to replace all wheeled public transport vehicles with electric buses," said Artyom Burlakov, deputy head of the innovative projects department at Mosgortrans.

Environmental activists have welcomed the initiative.

"They are also buying new, more power-efficient trams, which is a good thing," said Mikhail Babenko, head of the green economy program at World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Russia.

Babenko said that there was however long way to go when it came to Moscow residents changing their behaviour to incorporate greener initiatives in their lives.

The Russian capital remains infamous for its traffic jams.

(With Reuters inputs)

A senior official in Moscow city transport said that the Russian capital plans to nearly quadruple the number of electric buses in the city in coming years and replace all buses running on petrol or diesel by 2030.

A senior official in Moscow city transport said that the Russian capital plans to nearly quadruple the number of electric buses in the city in coming years and replace all buses running on petrol or diesel by 2030. Mosgortrans, which runs Moscow's vast bus and tram network, said its fleet of around 600 electric buses would be expanded by 400 vehicles by the year-end. Another 420 buses will be added in the following year and then 850. This will put number of electric buses in the fleet to more than 2000. "Every year the plan will be to replace all wheeled public transport vehicles with electric buses," said Artyom Burlakov, deputy head of the innovative projects department at Mosgortrans. Environmental activists have welcomed the initiative. "They are also buying new, more power-efficient trams, which is a good thing," said Mikhail Babenko, head of the green economy program at World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Russia. Babenko said that there was however long way to go when it came to Moscow residents changing their behaviour to incorporate greener initiatives in their lives. The Russian capital remains infamous for its traffic jams. (With Reuters inputs)

Green Moscow: Russian capital eyes a full electric bus fleet by 2030

A snowy weather in Moscow did not spoil a day for the Russian panda to have fun on Monday (February 15). Female panda Dindin seemed to be happy while she was rolling off the mountain and some tricks in the snow.

No such thing as a bad weather - panda enjoy snow in Moscow Zoo

Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's release is being continued to be demanded. Thousands of protestors continue to support Navalny and protest on the streets with the flashlights with a motto to release him. The protests continue to take place even after restrictions being put. Some people even demonstrated support in terms of lit candles in their courtyards. Apart from the physical protests, the hashtags in support of them were also trending on social media.

Pro-Navalny demonstrations in Moscow

Russians took a ride on a Ferris wheel in Moscow on Saturday to find themselves a date for Valentine's Day. Dozens of men and women had just one ride - or seven minutes - to find a match on the eve of the day of love celebrated across the world on February 14.

In the Russian capital, women waited inside the heated cabins while men had to swap after each ride.

After a complete round, each participant secretly marked their picks on a form with organisers promising to put the matching couples in touch.

This never seen before speed dating found many takers with participants giving thumb up to the method. Especially with the unforgiving Russian winter taking the country in its grips, those seeking a special someone to spend the Valentine's Day with had a reason to smile.

'Navalny is love'

Valentines Day in Russia this year assumes political overtones as well. With the most prominent Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny behind bars, his supporters and allies came out to celebrate what can be called a Navalny themed Valentine.

People gathered outside their homes for 15 minutes on the evening of Valentine's Day. They planned to shine their mobile torches and arrange candles in the shape of hearts. 
"Putin is fear. Navalny is love. That's why we will win," Leonid Volkov, Navalny's close ally tweeted, urging people to join the demonstrations.

Russians took a ride on a Ferris wheel in Moscow on Saturday to find themselves a date for Valentine's Day. Dozens of men and women had just one ride - or seven minutes - to find a match on the eve of the day of love celebrated across the world on February 14.

Russians took a ride on a Ferris wheel in Moscow on Saturday to find themselves a date for Valentine's Day. Dozens of men and women had just one ride - or seven minutes - to find a match on the eve of the day of love celebrated across the world on February 14. In the Russian capital, women waited inside the heated cabins while men had to swap after each ride. After a complete round, each participant secretly marked their picks on a form with organisers promising to put the matching couples in touch. This never seen before speed dating found many takers with participants giving thumb up to the method. Especially with the unforgiving Russian winter taking the country in its grips, those seeking a special someone to spend the Valentine's Day with had a reason to smile. 'Navalny is love' Valentines Day in Russia this year assumes political overtones as well. With the most prominent Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny behind bars, his supporters and allies came out to celebrate what can be called a Navalny themed Valentine. People gathered outside their homes for 15 minutes on the evening of Valentine's Day. They planned to shine their mobile torches and arrange candles in the shape of hearts. "Putin is fear. Navalny is love. That's why we will win," Leonid Volkov, Navalny's close ally tweeted, urging people to join the demonstrations.

Valentine's Day: Russians speed-date on a Ferris wheel in Moscow

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