Thousands gathered in a rare large protest in the Russian region of Bashkortostan and clashed with riot police who fired tear gas and hit protesters with batons, on Wednesday (Jan 17), after a prominent local rights activist was sentenced to four years in a penal colony.

<h2>Rare protest turned violent</h2>

According to Russia’s Investigative Committee, several people, including law enforcement officials, were injured during the protest and subsequent clashes.&nbsp;

WATCH |&nbsp;Moscow-Pyongyang relations: Lavrov holds talks with North Korean counterpart

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/moscow-pyongyang-relations-lavrov-holds-talks-with-north-korean-counterpart-680857/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

“During the mass disturbances, which were accompanied by violence, including the use of objects used as weapons, several people were injured, including members of law enforcement agencies,” said the investigators.&nbsp;

A monitoring group, OVD-Info group reported that dozens of people were detained, and injured, and one protester had suffered a “smashed head”.&nbsp;

The clashes broke out between the police and a large crowd of people who had gathered in support of the activist, Fail Alsynov in the small Russian town of Baymak.&nbsp;

Large protests are extremely rare in Russia given the risk of arrest over any gatherings which the authorities deem unauthorised.

According to reports, a few thousand people gathered for the demonstration which went on for several days in temperatures as low as -20 degree Celsius.&nbsp;

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-is-developing-ties-with-n-korea-in-all-areas-including-sensitive-ones-kremlin-680872">Russia is developing ties with N. Korea in all areas, including 'sensitive' ones: Kremlin</a>

Footage of the incident showed protesters pelting the police with snowballs which harmlessly smashed against their shields. Several people have also reportedly been detained.&nbsp;

According to the SOTA, an opposition Telegram channel, the clashes broke out after protesters blocked the court building in a bid to try to stop Alsynov from being taken away.

<h2>About Alsynov and his trial</h2>

The local activist was jailed for inciting ethnic hatred and was accused of insulting migrant workers in a speech he made last year over plans to mine for gold in Bashkortostan. A charge which he has since denied saying that his words were mistranslated from the Bashkir language.&nbsp;

However, Alsynov’s supporters said that the case against him was revenge for his role in protests several years earlier during which activists successfully blocked plans to mine for soda on a hill that local people consider a sacred place.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-17-injured-after-russian-missiles-hit-ukraines-kharkiv-680881">At least 17 injured after Russian missiles hit Ukraine's Kharkiv</a>

“Huge thanks to everyone who came to support me. I will never forget this. I don’t admit my guilt,” the local activist told online media outlet RusNews after the verdict. He added, “I always fought for justice, for my people, for my republic,”

Some people in the crowd were heard shouting “Shame!”&nbsp;while others called for the dismissal of the local governor, Radiy Khabirov who accused Alsynov of using racist language.&nbsp;

In his speech in April 2023, the local activist used two words in Bashkir that were translated into Russian as “black people,” which is considered a derogatory term in Russian. However, he insists the words he used in the Bashkir language mean “poor people”.&nbsp;

<h2>‘Mass rioting’</h2>

Local Russian officials have already opened a criminal case into what it described as “mass rioting” which, according to Russian law carried a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison.&nbsp;

Rafail Divayev, head of the local interior ministry, urged the protesters to back down, asking them to “come to your senses and not ruin your life”.&nbsp;

“Mass riots threaten our country’s national security, therefore the punishment under this article is quite serious,” the state-run RIA Novosti news agency quoted him as saying.

The protests were one of the largest demonstrations in Russia since Moscow launched its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Thousands gathered in a rare large protest in the Russian region of Bashkortostan and clashed with riot police who fired tear gas and hit protesters with batons, on Wednesday (Jan 17), after a prominent local rights activist was sentenced to four years in a penal colony.

Thousands gathered in a rare large protest in the Russian region of Bashkortostan and clashed with riot police who fired tear gas and hit protesters with batons, on Wednesday (Jan 17), after a prominent local rights activist was sentenced to four years in a penal colony. Rare protest turned violent According to Russia’s Investigative Committee, several people, including law enforcement officials, were injured during the protest and subsequent clashes. WATCH | Moscow-Pyongyang relations: Lavrov holds talks with North Korean counterpart “During the mass disturbances, which were accompanied by violence, including the use of objects used as weapons, several people were injured, including members of law enforcement agencies,” said the investigators. A monitoring group, OVD-Info group reported that dozens of people were detained, and injured, and one protester had suffered a “smashed head”. The clashes broke out between the police and a large crowd of people who had gathered in support of the activist, Fail Alsynov in the small Russian town of Baymak. Large protests are extremely rare in Russia given the risk of arrest over any gatherings which the authorities deem unauthorised. According to reports, a few thousand people gathered for the demonstration which went on for several days in temperatures as low as -20 degree Celsius. ALSO READ | Russia is developing ties with N. Korea in all areas, including 'sensitive' ones: Kremlin Footage of the incident showed protesters pelting the police with snowballs which harmlessly smashed against their shields. Several people have also reportedly been detained. According to the SOTA, an opposition Telegram channel, the clashes broke out after protesters blocked the court building in a bid to try to stop Alsynov from being taken away. About Alsynov and his trial The local activist was jailed for inciting ethnic hatred and was accused of insulting migrant workers in a speech he made last year over plans to mine for gold in Bashkortostan. A charge which he has since denied saying that his words were mistranslated from the Bashkir language. However, Alsynov’s supporters said that the case against him was revenge for his role in protests several years earlier during which activists successfully blocked plans to mine for soda on a hill that local people consider a sacred place. ALSO READ | At least 17 injured after Russian missiles hit Ukraine's Kharkiv “Huge thanks to everyone who came to support me. I will never forget this. I don’t admit my guilt,” the local activist told online media outlet RusNews after the verdict. He added, “I always fought for justice, for my people, for my republic,” Some people in the crowd were heard shouting “Shame!” while others called for the dismissal of the local governor, Radiy Khabirov who accused Alsynov of using racist language. In his speech in April 2023, the local activist used two words in Bashkir that were translated into Russian as “black people,” which is considered a derogatory term in Russian. However, he insists the words he used in the Bashkir language mean “poor people”. ‘Mass rioting’ Local Russian officials have already opened a criminal case into what it described as “mass rioting” which, according to Russian law carried a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. Rafail Divayev, head of the local interior ministry, urged the protesters to back down, asking them to “come to your senses and not ruin your life”. “Mass riots threaten our country’s national security, therefore the punishment under this article is quite serious,” the state-run RIA Novosti news agency quoted him as saying. The protests were one of the largest demonstrations in Russia since Moscow launched its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia protest: Demonstrators clash with riot police over jailing of rights activist

A Moscow court on Tuesday fined TikTok more than $30,000 for failing to delete posts calling for minors to join unsanctioned protests in support of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

The court said on its Telegram channel that the video-sharing platform had been found guilty of failing to remove information that violates Russian law and sentenced to an administrative fine of $34,000 (2.6 million rubles/28,000 euros).

The ruling comes as Russia ramps up pressure on foreign&nbsp;tech&nbsp;platforms, with a Moscow court also hitting Twitter on Friday with three fines totalling 8.9 million rubles ($116,700/99,000 euros) for the same violation as TikTok.

In January, authorities accused foreign social media platforms including TikTok and Twitter of interfering in Russia's domestic affairs by not deleting calls to rallies in support of Navalny late that month and early February.

Russia's media watchdog Roskomnadzor said last month it would draw up protocols demanding the foreign social media platforms be fined for failing to delete the calls after it had warned them to do so.

Roskomnadzor described the calls to protests as "inciting teenagers" to take part in "illegal activities", or "unauthorised mass events".&nbsp;

Last month the media watchdog also began throttling the speeds of Twitter's services, accusing it of failing to remove content related to child pornography, drug use and calls for minors to commit suicide.

On Monday, it gave the US&nbsp;tech&nbsp;giant an ultimatum of deleting the posts by mid-May or face a complete blockage in the country.&nbsp;

Moscow regularly fines foreign internet companies like Twitter, Facebook, and Google for failing to comply with its legislation.

TikTok came into the view of the authorities more recently after videos on the platform in January calling for Russians to join rallies in support of Navalny garnered hundreds of thousands of views.&nbsp;

President Vladimir Putin that month complained about the growing influence of large technology companies that he said are competing with states.&nbsp;

A Moscow court on Tuesday fined TikTok more than $30,000 for failing to delete posts calling for minors to join unsanctioned protests in support of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

A Moscow court on Tuesday fined TikTok more than $30,000 for failing to delete posts calling for minors to join unsanctioned protests in support of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. The court said on its Telegram channel that the video-sharing platform had been found guilty of failing to remove information that violates Russian law and sentenced to an administrative fine of $34,000 (2.6 million rubles/28,000 euros). The ruling comes as Russia ramps up pressure on foreign tech platforms, with a Moscow court also hitting Twitter on Friday with three fines totalling 8.9 million rubles ($116,700/99,000 euros) for the same violation as TikTok. In January, authorities accused foreign social media platforms including TikTok and Twitter of interfering in Russia's domestic affairs by not deleting calls to rallies in support of Navalny late that month and early February. Russia's media watchdog Roskomnadzor said last month it would draw up protocols demanding the foreign social media platforms be fined for failing to delete the calls after it had warned them to do so. Roskomnadzor described the calls to protests as "inciting teenagers" to take part in "illegal activities", or "unauthorised mass events". Last month the media watchdog also began throttling the speeds of Twitter's services, accusing it of failing to remove content related to child pornography, drug use and calls for minors to commit suicide. On Monday, it gave the US tech giant an ultimatum of deleting the posts by mid-May or face a complete blockage in the country. Moscow regularly fines foreign internet companies like Twitter, Facebook, and Google for failing to comply with its legislation. TikTok came into the view of the authorities more recently after videos on the platform in January calling for Russians to join rallies in support of Navalny garnered hundreds of thousands of views. President Vladimir Putin that month complained about the growing influence of large technology companies that he said are competing with states.

Russia fines TikTok over calls for minors to join protests

Aides of jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny has said that the opposition will shift its focus from protest to the upcoming parliamentary elections in Russia.

Russia Protest: Navalny aide says, "the format of protest will change"

Navalny has spearheaded many anti-corruption rallies and is considered to be the face of the opposition in Russia.

Pro-Navalny protest: Russian protesters vow to continue their fight against govt

Thousands of Russians have posted selfies wearing red tops to show support for jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny's wife.

Is Navalny's wife Yulia Navalnaya is a new force in Russia

Kremlin is blaming 'Western powers' of meddling in Alexei Navalny's court-hearing. From being accused of interfering in other's affairs to now leveling the same accusation

Gravitas: 13 foreign diplomats attend Navalny hearing

Russia witnessed its second round of anti-Putin protests over the weekend. At least 5000 people were detained. The crackdown by the Russian police is being condemned by leading world powers.

Gravitas: Second week of Anti-Putin protests: At least 5000 detained

US President Joe Biden has called Russian President Vladimir Putin to immediately release the jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

Biden speaks to Putin, calls for Alexei Navalny's release

Supporters were called to rally on Sunday near the headquarters of the FSB, the intelligence agency accused of poisoning Navalny last August.

Russia braces for second weekend of pro-Navalny protests

Russian President Vladimir Putin has spoken out. He termed Saturday's protests illegal and denied Navalny's allegation that he owns a $1.3 billion palace. But, the protesters are planning another march on Sunday. WION's Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas | Navalny Arrest: Putin calls protest illegal, new marches planned for Sunday

Alexei Navalny is posing the biggest challenge to Putin's Presidency. He has survived an attempted poisoning, exposed corruption and is now steering the biggest movement in Russia's recent history. WION's Molly Gambhir tells you how Navalny outmaneuvered Putin.

Gravitas: How Navalny became the face of Russian opposition

The protests in Russia over the detention of Alexei Navalny could turn into a bigger movement. Tens of thousands had turned out in support of Navalny last weekend. WION's Molly Gambhir tells you more about Navalny's rise as the face of the opposition in Russia.

Gravitas | Alexei Navalny: Putin's loudest Critic

British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab says in a tweet that the G7 group of nations condemns the arrest of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, calling his detention "politically motivated".

Dominic Raab: The G7 condemns arrest of Russian opposition leader Navalny

Vladimir Putin became Russia's President at the turn of the millennium and he&nbsp;had two tasks before him: handling the war in Chechnya and the Boris Yeltsin-era oligarchs;&nbsp;he weathered both.

In 2002, a Moscow theatre was seized by Chechen militants who took 912 people hostage, of which 129&nbsp;died. Putin handled the siege ruthlessly and&nbsp;earned a 'strongman' reputation with an approval rating of 83 per cent.

In 2014, Putin annexed Crimea and&nbsp;Russia was slapped with sanctions. However, four years later, Putin appeared to mock the sanctions&nbsp;when he managed to get the world to Russi&nbsp;for the football world cup.

For a man&nbsp;who has survived it all,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/alexei-navalny">Alexei Navalny</a> is becoming too grave a threat.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-to-keep-all-options-on-table-for-navalnys-release-us-press-sec-jen-psaki-359479" hreflang="en">Biden to keep all options on table for Navalny's release: US Press Sec Jen Psaki</a>

Vladimir Putin is used to silencing dissent. In 2006, journalist Anna Politkovskaya was murdered on Putin's birthday. She had written about corruption in the Russian army. However,&nbsp;Putin denied any involvement.

Now, 15 years on, every critic of Putin has either met the same fate or has been silenced or sidelined in one way or another — be it former federal security service officer&nbsp;Alexander Litvinenko, former intelligence officer Sergei Skripal, activist-journalist&nbsp;Vladimir Vladimirovich Kara-Murza or Ukrainian leader Viktor Yushchenko.

Alexei Navalny, however, has emerged as an exception after he survived a nerve agent poisoning. He&nbsp;used his recovery time&nbsp;to investigate attacks on journalists.

He exposed corruption in Putin's system, which he detailed&nbsp;in a two-hour documentary. Now, Navalny has kickstarted what Putin fears the most:&nbsp;a Ukraine-style Maidan revolution.

From Moscow to St. Petersburg, protesters have taken to the streets across Russia with demonstrations in at least 100 cities. While Russia has earlier, too, seen anti-Putin protests, something of this scale is unprecedented.

Putin knows the history and he understands the threat&nbsp;such protests come with. He knows that protests eventually toppled the Tsarist rule too.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/russians-take-to-streets-to-protest-against-putin-after-navalnys-arrest-358817" hreflang="en">Russians take to streets to protest against Putin after Navalny's arrest</a>

On paper, Putin's dream of being a president for life&nbsp;is clear, but on the roads of Russia are&nbsp;hurdles abound. Many protesters are calling Putin a thief and&nbsp;most are calling for a Russia without him.

Putin's worst fears have come true because of the 44-year-old&nbsp;Alexei Navalny.&nbsp;He is popular and has support abroad.

Navalny's poisoning made him a household name and his dramatic arrest heightened his profile and&nbsp;made him the face of Russian opposition —&nbsp;a position that was lying vacant for over two decades.

He has done his research and&nbsp;knows how the Kremlin works. In fact, Navalny has outmanoeuvred Putin.

After Navalny was poisoned, he duped Russian agents into spilling the details of the attempted assassination and&nbsp;returned to Russia despite the threats of an arrest. In&nbsp;doing so,&nbsp;Navalny became a hero.

When he was jailed, he told the world&nbsp;that he has no intention of committing suicide. So, Navalny has basically put Putin in a catch 22 situation as letting Navalny walk out of prison comes with a huge cost, but&nbsp;keeping him behind bars is not helping either.

Silencing him inside prison is not even an option. The world is watching what's happening in Russia and the call for "freedom"&nbsp;has reached Berlin.

Europe is calling for Navalny's release and&nbsp;the EU is mulling sanctions.

Navalny has not just challenged Putin's leadership, but also his strongman image. Navalny has been exposing Putin and labelling him as a fragile and corrupt leader. He has forced Putin to clear his name in public. Putin is so threatened by his fiercest critic that Navalny is not even allowed to contest elections.

Three weeks ago, Putin's popularity had slipped to 65 per cent. One&nbsp;can only imagine what the protests have done to that number. The change in leadership outside the home has made matters worse.

The US President Joe Biden is not Donald Trump and his White House is not looking away. It has already asked for the release of Navalny and his supporters.

Vladimir Putin became Russia's President at the turn of the millennium and he had two tasks before him: handling the war in Chechnya and the Boris Yeltsin-era oligarchs; he weathered both.

Vladimir Putin became Russia's President at the turn of the millennium and he had two tasks before him: handling the war in Chechnya and the Boris Yeltsin-era oligarchs; he weathered both. In 2002, a Moscow theatre was seized by Chechen militants who took 912 people hostage, of which 129 died. Putin handled the siege ruthlessly and earned a 'strongman' reputation with an approval rating of 83 per cent. In 2014, Putin annexed Crimea and Russia was slapped with sanctions. However, four years later, Putin appeared to mock the sanctions when he managed to get the world to Russi for the football world cup. For a man who has survived it all, Alexei Navalny is becoming too grave a threat. Also read| Biden to keep all options on table for Navalny's release: US Press Sec Jen Psaki Vladimir Putin is used to silencing dissent. In 2006, journalist Anna Politkovskaya was murdered on Putin's birthday. She had written about corruption in the Russian army. However, Putin denied any involvement. Now, 15 years on, every critic of Putin has either met the same fate or has been silenced or sidelined in one way or another — be it former federal security service officer Alexander Litvinenko, former intelligence officer Sergei Skripal, activist-journalist Vladimir Vladimirovich Kara-Murza or Ukrainian leader Viktor Yushchenko. Alexei Navalny, however, has emerged as an exception after he survived a nerve agent poisoning. He used his recovery time to investigate attacks on journalists. He exposed corruption in Putin's system, which he detailed in a two-hour documentary. Now, Navalny has kickstarted what Putin fears the most: a Ukraine-style Maidan revolution. From Moscow to St. Petersburg, protesters have taken to the streets across Russia with demonstrations in at least 100 cities. While Russia has earlier, too, seen anti-Putin protests, something of this scale is unprecedented. Putin knows the history and he understands the threat such protests come with. He knows that protests eventually toppled the Tsarist rule too. Also read| Russians take to streets to protest against Putin after Navalny's arrest On paper, Putin's dream of being a president for life is clear, but on the roads of Russia are hurdles abound. Many protesters are calling Putin a thief and most are calling for a Russia without him. Putin's worst fears have come true because of the 44-year-old Alexei Navalny. He is popular and has support abroad. Navalny's poisoning made him a household name and his dramatic arrest heightened his profile and made him the face of Russian opposition — a position that was lying vacant for over two decades. He has done his research and knows how the Kremlin works. In fact, Navalny has outmanoeuvred Putin. After Navalny was poisoned, he duped Russian agents into spilling the details of the attempted assassination and returned to Russia despite the threats of an arrest. In doing so, Navalny became a hero. When he was jailed, he told the world that he has no intention of committing suicide. So, Navalny has basically put Putin in a catch 22 situation as letting Navalny walk out of prison comes with a huge cost, but keeping him behind bars is not helping either. Silencing him inside prison is not even an option. The world is watching what's happening in Russia and the call for "freedom" has reached Berlin. Europe is calling for Navalny's release and the EU is mulling sanctions. Navalny has not just challenged Putin's leadership, but also his strongman image. Navalny has been exposing Putin and labelling him as a fragile and corrupt leader. He has forced Putin to clear his name in public. Putin is so threatened by his fiercest critic that Navalny is not even allowed to contest elections. Three weeks ago, Putin's popularity had slipped to 65 per cent. One can only imagine what the protests have done to that number. The change in leadership outside the home has made matters worse. The US President Joe Biden is not Donald Trump and his White House is not looking away. It has already asked for the release of Navalny and his supporters.

Putin's popularity slips as Alexei Navalny's political equity rises

Anti-Putin protests have hit all major Russian cities. Protesters are calling for 'Russia without Putin' while demanding the release of Alexei Navalny. WION's Palki Sharma has a report.

Gravitas: Protests in Russia

Russian police detained people and used force to break up a rally in St Petersburg on Sunday (January 23) as protesters demanded the release of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, whose wife was among those detained.

Russia: Police detains over 200 protesters at pro-Navalny rally in St Petersburg

Russian police detained more than 3,000 people and used force to break up rallies across Russia as tens of thousands of protesters ignored the extreme cold and police warnings to demand the release of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

Russian police officers beat protesters at opposition rally

Both US and the&nbsp;European Union have expressed ''deep concerns'' over&nbsp;Russia's response to mass protests in support of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny&nbsp;on Saturday.

Police clashed violently with protesters in Moscow and arrested more than 2,500 in cities across the country Saturday as Russians took to the streets to denounce Kremlin rule and demand the release of Navalny.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/navalnys-wife-among-nearly-2000-people-detained-in-russia-at-rallies-358823">Navalny's wife among nearly 2,000 people detained in Russia at rallies</a>

"The United States strongly condemns the use of harsh tactics against protesters and journalists this weekend in cities throughout Russia," State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement.

Navalny being taken into custody and the arrests of his supporters were "troubling indications of further restrictions on civil society and fundamental freedoms," he added.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hundreds-arrested-during-protests-in-support-of-opposition-leader-alexei-navalny-358886/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"We call on Russian authorities to release all those detained for exercising their universal rights and for the immediate and unconditional release of Aleksey Navalny," Price said, using an alternative spelling.

"We urge Russia to fully cooperate with the international community's investigation into the poisoning of Aleksey Navalny and credibly explain the use of a chemical weapon on its soil."

"Following unfolding events in #Russia with concern," Josep Borrell wrote on Twitter as tens of thousands protested in Russia in support of opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

"I deplore widespread detentions, disproportionate use of force, cutting down internet and phone connections. We will discuss on Monday next steps with EU Foreign Ministers."

In Russia tens of thousands nationwide answered Navalny's call to rally, which he issued after he was detained at a Moscow airport on arrival from Germany, where he had been recovering from a near-fatal poisoning with a nerve agent.

Saturday's protests took on an unprecedented geographic scale, spanning more than 100 cities across the country. Previous large-scale opposition demonstrations in 2012 and 2019 were largely centered in Moscow.

Both US and the European Union have expressed ''deep concerns'' over Russia's response to mass protests in support of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny on Saturday. Police clashed violently with protesters in Moscow and arrested more than 2,500 in cities across the country Saturday as Russians took to the streets to denounce Kremlin rule and demand the release of Navalny.

Both US and the European Union have expressed ''deep concerns'' over Russia's response to mass protests in support of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny on Saturday. Police clashed violently with protesters in Moscow and arrested more than 2,500 in cities across the country Saturday as Russians took to the streets to denounce Kremlin rule and demand the release of Navalny. Also read: Navalny's wife among nearly 2,000 people detained in Russia at rallies "The United States strongly condemns the use of harsh tactics against protesters and journalists this weekend in cities throughout Russia," State Department spokesman Ned Price said in a statement. Navalny being taken into custody and the arrests of his supporters were "troubling indications of further restrictions on civil society and fundamental freedoms," he added. "We call on Russian authorities to release all those detained for exercising their universal rights and for the immediate and unconditional release of Aleksey Navalny," Price said, using an alternative spelling. "We urge Russia to fully cooperate with the international community's investigation into the poisoning of Aleksey Navalny and credibly explain the use of a chemical weapon on its soil." "Following unfolding events in #Russia with concern," Josep Borrell wrote on Twitter as tens of thousands protested in Russia in support of opposition leader Alexei Navalny. "I deplore widespread detentions, disproportionate use of force, cutting down internet and phone connections. We will discuss on Monday next steps with EU Foreign Ministers." In Russia tens of thousands nationwide answered Navalny's call to rally, which he issued after he was detained at a Moscow airport on arrival from Germany, where he had been recovering from a near-fatal poisoning with a nerve agent. Saturday's protests took on an unprecedented geographic scale, spanning more than 100 cities across the country. Previous large-scale opposition demonstrations in 2012 and 2019 were largely centered in Moscow.

US, EU express 'deep concerns' over 'widespread detentions' in Russia protests

The United States has strongly condemned Russia's use of 'harsh tactics' against protesters and journalists demanding the release of opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

US, EU condemns Russia's crackdown on protesters & journalists

Police detained over 1,000 people and used force to break up rallies around Russia on Saturday as tens of thousands of protesters demanded the release of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, whose wife was among those detained.

Hundreds arrested during protests in support of opposition leader Alexei Navalny

Police arrest over 1,000 people at Russia protests backing jailed Kremlin foe Navalny

The political environment in Russia is getting more intense now, especially after the arrest of the Kremlin critic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/alexei-navalny">Alexei Navalny</a>.

Following the arrest, people are now having to rely on video-sharing platforms such as TikTok and YouTube to get access to news. However, the video-sharing apps have taken steps to restrict content promoting the weekend protests, suggested by Navalny himself.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-authorities-arrest-over-a-dozen-supporters-of-navalny-358757" hreflang="en">Russian authorities arrest over a dozen supporters of Navalny</a>

As per Russian officials, TikTok had deleted some videos promoting the "illegal" weekend protests that were being organised to demand the release of Navalny.

Various posts demanding the release of Navalny have been viewed more than 300 million times on TikTok since this arrest at the start of this week.

Navalny, who is hugely gaining popularity among the youngsters of Russia, have been posting content in favour of Putin's sworn-enemy, despite several warnings by the Russian government.

This has also reached Navalny in his detention centre. "Respect to the schoolchildren who, according to my lawyer, 'wreaked havoc on TikTok'," his team posted on his Instagram account on the detained critic's behalf.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/russian-critic-navalnys-supporters-to-rally-for-his-release-despite-warnings-358735" hreflang="en">Russian critic Navalny's supporters to rally for his release despite warnings</a>

The Russian government has also, now, opened a criminal case into this matter, alleging an attempt to misleading youngsters pf the country into committing illegal acts against the security of themselves and the country.

While TikTok has been taking strict actions, YouTube has also not been completely ignorant to these messages being passed around, The popular video platform has also deleted nearly 50 per cent of the posts claiming it was urging minors to protest.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/eu-chief-has-urged-putin-to-release-navalny-but-kremlin-wont-budge-358602" hreflang="en">EU chief has urged Putin to release Navalny. But Kremlin won't budge</a>

Meanwhile, videos promoting protests have been gaining views and likes at a rapid rate.

Russia media watchdog Roskomnadzor claimed TikTok "deleted 38 per cent of information inciting minors to dangerous illegal actions" and also added Instagram and YouTube to the list.

However, Facebook has claimed that it has not yet removed any of such information.&nbsp;

"We've received requests from the local regulator to restrict access to certain content that calls for protest," a Facebook spokesperson said. "Since this content doesn't violate our Community Standards, it remains on our platform."

The political environment in Russia is getting more intense now, especially after the arrest of the Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. Following the arrest, people are now having to rely on video-sharing platforms such as TikTok and YouTube to get access to news.

The political environment in Russia is getting more intense now, especially after the arrest of the Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. Following the arrest, people are now having to rely on video-sharing platforms such as TikTok and YouTube to get access to news. However, the video-sharing apps have taken steps to restrict content promoting the weekend protests, suggested by Navalny himself. Also read| Russian authorities arrest over a dozen supporters of Navalny As per Russian officials, TikTok had deleted some videos promoting the "illegal" weekend protests that were being organised to demand the release of Navalny. Various posts demanding the release of Navalny have been viewed more than 300 million times on TikTok since this arrest at the start of this week. Navalny, who is hugely gaining popularity among the youngsters of Russia, have been posting content in favour of Putin's sworn-enemy, despite several warnings by the Russian government. This has also reached Navalny in his detention centre. "Respect to the schoolchildren who, according to my lawyer, 'wreaked havoc on TikTok'," his team posted on his Instagram account on the detained critic's behalf. Also read| Russian critic Navalny's supporters to rally for his release despite warnings The Russian government has also, now, opened a criminal case into this matter, alleging an attempt to misleading youngsters pf the country into committing illegal acts against the security of themselves and the country. While TikTok has been taking strict actions, YouTube has also not been completely ignorant to these messages being passed around, The popular video platform has also deleted nearly 50 per cent of the posts claiming it was urging minors to protest. Also read| EU chief has urged Putin to release Navalny. But Kremlin won't budge Meanwhile, videos promoting protests have been gaining views and likes at a rapid rate. Russia media watchdog Roskomnadzor claimed TikTok "deleted 38 per cent of information inciting minors to dangerous illegal actions" and also added Instagram and YouTube to the list. However, Facebook has claimed that it has not yet removed any of such information. "We've received requests from the local regulator to restrict access to certain content that calls for protest," a Facebook spokesperson said. "Since this content doesn't violate our Community Standards, it remains on our platform."

TikTok, YouTube delete content promoting 'illegal' protests for Navalny

Detained Kremlin Critic Alexey Navalny supporters are staging protests across Russia to force his release.

Navalny supporters stage protest against his arrest & Prez Putin

Russia police on Friday raided one of the offices of main opposition leader Alexei Navalny as critics accuse Putin government of increasing efforts to stiffle dissent.&nbsp;

Alexander Golovach, a lawyer working for Navalny's Anti-Corruption Fund (FBK), shared a video on social media of cops arriving at their offices in southern Moscow.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-britain-canada-accuse-russia-of-hacking-covid-19-vaccine-research-313873">US, Britain, Canada accuse Russia of hacking Covid-19 vaccine research</a>

Navalny said he had been banned from leaving Moscow due to a new criminal case registered against him.&nbsp;

He added the ban was imposed on him to prevent his campaigning across the country ahead of the regional polls in September.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fact-check-has-russia-really-found-coronavirus-vaccine-313073">Fact-check: Has Russia really found coronavirus vaccine?</a>

The 44-year-old said he was being interrogated as part of a new investigation for suspected slander over comments he made on social media.&nbsp;

The Investigative Committee, which probes important cases, in June suspected Navalny of defaming a World War II veteran.&nbsp;

Navalny's offices have been constantly raided by Russian enforcement agencies and several criminal probes were made against him.&nbsp;

Recently, Kremlin critics slammed the Russian government of ramping up its efforts to bury critcism after President Vladimir Putin won a mandate to amend Constitution that will open the door for him to stay im power until 2036.

This week Moscow police detained about 150 people who participate in the city centre march against the constitutional amendments.

(With AFP inputs) 
&nbsp;

Russia police on Friday raided one of the offices of main opposition leader Alexei Navalny as critics accuse Putin government of increasing efforts to stiffle dissent.

Russia police on Friday raided one of the offices of main opposition leader Alexei Navalny as critics accuse Putin government of increasing efforts to stiffle dissent. Alexander Golovach, a lawyer working for Navalny's Anti-Corruption Fund (FBK), shared a video on social media of cops arriving at their offices in southern Moscow. Also read | US, Britain, Canada accuse Russia of hacking Covid-19 vaccine research Navalny said he had been banned from leaving Moscow due to a new criminal case registered against him. He added the ban was imposed on him to prevent his campaigning across the country ahead of the regional polls in September. Also read | Fact-check: Has Russia really found coronavirus vaccine? The 44-year-old said he was being interrogated as part of a new investigation for suspected slander over comments he made on social media. The Investigative Committee, which probes important cases, in June suspected Navalny of defaming a World War II veteran. Navalny's offices have been constantly raided by Russian enforcement agencies and several criminal probes were made against him. Recently, Kremlin critics slammed the Russian government of ramping up its efforts to bury critcism after President Vladimir Putin won a mandate to amend Constitution that will open the door for him to stay im power until 2036. This week Moscow police detained about 150 people who participate in the city centre march against the constitutional amendments. (With AFP inputs)

Russia: Police raid prominent opposition leader's office

Another protest was held in Moscow against the&nbsp;constitutional reform that allows President Vladimir Putin to remain in power until 2036.

A rally was organized in Russia's capital in which protestors came together to rally and leave signatures on a petition which voices concern against the results of a nationwide vote on a set of constitutional amendments that extend Putin's rule, redistribute executive powers within the government, prioritise Russian law over international law and outlaw same-sex marriage.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/protest-in-moscow-against-reforms-that-could-keep-putin-in-power-till-2036-313573#no-to-eternal-putin-313564">Have a look:&nbsp;Protest in Moscow against reforms that could keep Putin in power till 2036</a>

The voting, amid the coronavirus, attracted a lot of international criticism, combined with reports of rigging in elections and various other malpractices.

The rally was broken off by Moscow police which claims to have detained 132 protestors. However,&nbsp;OVD-Info rights group that monitors arrests and detentions in Russia reported the detainee number as&nbsp;147.

The rally was unauthorised and reportedly was blocking Moscow traffic. In the videos shown on the local news channels, the riot police and protetsors were seen clashing and some images also showed the riot police dragging the protestors to the police vans, before detaining them.

Chair of Russia's Journalists Union Vladimir Solovyov also reported that several reporters, who were covering and reporting the protest, were also detained.

Another protest was held in Moscow against the constitutional reform that allows President Vladimir Putin to remain in power until 2036. A rally was organized in Russia's capital in which protestors came together to rally and leave signatures on a petition which voices concern against the results of a nationwide vote on a set of constitutional amendments that extend Putin's rule, redistribute executive powers within the government, prioritise Russian law over international law and outlaw same-sex marriage.

Another protest was held in Moscow against the constitutional reform that allows President Vladimir Putin to remain in power until 2036. A rally was organized in Russia's capital in which protestors came together to rally and leave signatures on a petition which voices concern against the results of a nationwide vote on a set of constitutional amendments that extend Putin's rule, redistribute executive powers within the government, prioritise Russian law over international law and outlaw same-sex marriage. Have a look: Protest in Moscow against reforms that could keep Putin in power till 2036 The voting, amid the coronavirus, attracted a lot of international criticism, combined with reports of rigging in elections and various other malpractices. The rally was broken off by Moscow police which claims to have detained 132 protestors. However, OVD-Info rights group that monitors arrests and detentions in Russia reported the detainee number as 147. The rally was unauthorised and reportedly was blocking Moscow traffic. In the videos shown on the local news channels, the riot police and protetsors were seen clashing and some images also showed the riot police dragging the protestors to the police vans, before detaining them. Chair of Russia's Journalists Union Vladimir Solovyov also reported that several reporters, who were covering and reporting the protest, were also detained.

Moscow police detains 132 protestors over 'anti-Putin rule' protest

Scores of people joined a second day of protests in the Russian Far East city of Khabarovsk over the arrest of a popular governor accused of ordering the murders of several businessmen.&nbsp;

Sergei Furgal was detained on Thursday and has been ordered to remain in pre-trial custody for two months over the crimes 15 years ago. The move triggered a mass demonstration on Saturday in Khabarovsk that was joined by around 40,000 people.

On Sunday, local supporters of leading Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny put the turnout at around 2,000.

Furgal won the race for Khabarovsk governor by a landslide in 2018, defeating a member of President Vladimir Putin's United Russia party.

The arrest of the former doctor came just days after Putin -- who has been in power for two decades -- won a landslide ballot on constitutional reforms that could allow him to extend his rule until 2036.

Furgal, leader of the Kremlin-friendly LDPR opposition party, has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/massive-protests-in-russia-after-famous-governors-arrest-312536">Also read |&nbsp;Massive protests in Russia after famous governor's arrest</a>

Saturday's demonstrations -- which saw protesters chanting anti-Putin slogans -- were unprecedented for almost any Russian city outside Moscow and Saint Petersburg.

The local government on Sunday urged people to show calm, noting all gatherings were banned under coronavirus restrictions.

(with inputs from agencies)

Scores of people joined a second day of protests in the Russian Far East city of Khabarovsk over the arrest of a popular governor accused of ordering the murders of several businessmen.

Scores of people joined a second day of protests in the Russian Far East city of Khabarovsk over the arrest of a popular governor accused of ordering the murders of several businessmen. Sergei Furgal was detained on Thursday and has been ordered to remain in pre-trial custody for two months over the crimes 15 years ago. The move triggered a mass demonstration on Saturday in Khabarovsk that was joined by around 40,000 people. On Sunday, local supporters of leading Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny put the turnout at around 2,000. Furgal won the race for Khabarovsk governor by a landslide in 2018, defeating a member of President Vladimir Putin's United Russia party. The arrest of the former doctor came just days after Putin -- who has been in power for two decades -- won a landslide ballot on constitutional reforms that could allow him to extend his rule until 2036. Furgal, leader of the Kremlin-friendly LDPR opposition party, has pleaded not guilty to the charges against him. Also read | Massive protests in Russia after famous governor's arrest Saturday's demonstrations -- which saw protesters chanting anti-Putin slogans -- were unprecedented for almost any Russian city outside Moscow and Saint Petersburg. The local government on Sunday urged people to show calm, noting all gatherings were banned under coronavirus restrictions. (with inputs from agencies)

Protests over governor's arrest in Russia enter second day

'No to king Putin': How Russians protested against constitutional amendments

More than a thousand opposition activists of various stripes marched in central Moscow on Sunday after President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-rejects-idea-of-soviet-style-lifelong-leaders-for-russia-while-addressing-war-veterans-275230">Vladimir Putin</a> proposed re-drafting the constitution, unleashing political upheaval.

Protesters mostly young anti-fascist activists chanted "Revolution" and "No to dictatorship" and some carried copies of the constitution.

The annual sanctioned march was called to commemorate the memory of lawyer Stanislav Markelov and journalist Anastasia Baburova who were gunned down in Moscow by ultra-nationalists in 2009.

A number of independent local deputies including Yulia Galyamin and opposition-minded Russians joined the march, carrying copies of the constitution and chanting "Putin leave!".&nbsp;

Several people including a protester who carried a placard urging Putin to quit power were detained by police.

More than 1,400 people took part in the march, said the White Counter group which monitors political protests.

The march took place after Putin stunned the nation on Wednesday proposing sweeping amendments to the constitution, the first major changes to the country's basic law since it was adopted under Boris Yeltsin in 1993.&nbsp;

The move triggered the resignation of his government.

Many observers have said Putin's proposals are designed to ensure his grip on power after he leaves the Kremlin and his critics have accused him of orchestrating a "constitutional coup".

Sunday's turnout paled in comparison to the protests of last summer when tens of thousands took to the streets of Moscow to protest against the exclusion of opposition candidates from local elections, leading to wide-scale arrests and long jail terms for a number of demonstrators.

Local deputy Galyamina said it was important to protest against Putin's attempts to cling to power and change the constitution, calling them a "state coup."

Writing on Facebook, she said it was just the "beginning of a civil campaign" of resistance.

But Russia's top opposition leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-authorities-raid-navalnys-office-270458">Alexei Navalny</a>&nbsp;said on Friday he did not support rallies in "defence of the cnstitution".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Что касается разнообразных предлагаемых акций "в защиту Конституции". 
Конституция РФ - омерзительна. В ней заложен механизм узурпации власти. По этой конституции у нас всё отняли - от выборов до пенсий - и дальше хотят отнимать. 
Не надо её защищать.
— Alexey Navalny (@navalny) <a href="https://twitter.com/navalny/status/1218144227894259718?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"The Russian constitution is abominable," he said on Twitter, adding it allowed authorities to usurp power.&nbsp;"No need to protect it."

Observers have said Putin's proposals have caught Kremlin critics off guard and managed to drive a new wedge between members of the Russian opposition.

More than a thousand opposition activists of various stripes marched in central Moscow on Sunday after President Vladimir Putin proposed re-drafting the constitution, unleashing political upheaval.

More than a thousand opposition activists of various stripes marched in central Moscow on Sunday after President Vladimir Putin proposed re-drafting the constitution, unleashing political upheaval. Protesters mostly young anti-fascist activists chanted "Revolution" and "No to dictatorship" and some carried copies of the constitution. The annual sanctioned march was called to commemorate the memory of lawyer Stanislav Markelov and journalist Anastasia Baburova who were gunned down in Moscow by ultra-nationalists in 2009. A number of independent local deputies including Yulia Galyamin and opposition-minded Russians joined the march, carrying copies of the constitution and chanting "Putin leave!". Several people including a protester who carried a placard urging Putin to quit power were detained by police. More than 1,400 people took part in the march, said the White Counter group which monitors political protests. The march took place after Putin stunned the nation on Wednesday proposing sweeping amendments to the constitution, the first major changes to the country's basic law since it was adopted under Boris Yeltsin in 1993. The move triggered the resignation of his government. Many observers have said Putin's proposals are designed to ensure his grip on power after he leaves the Kremlin and his critics have accused him of orchestrating a "constitutional coup". Sunday's turnout paled in comparison to the protests of last summer when tens of thousands took to the streets of Moscow to protest against the exclusion of opposition candidates from local elections, leading to wide-scale arrests and long jail terms for a number of demonstrators. Local deputy Galyamina said it was important to protest against Putin's attempts to cling to power and change the constitution, calling them a "state coup." Writing on Facebook, she said it was just the "beginning of a civil campaign" of resistance. But Russia's top opposition leader Alexei Navalny said on Friday he did not support rallies in "defence of the cnstitution". Что касается разнообразных предлагаемых акций "в защиту Конституции". Конституция РФ - омерзительна. В ней заложен механизм узурпации власти. По этой конституции у нас всё отняли - от выборов до пенсий - и дальше хотят отнимать. Не надо её защищать. — Alexey Navalny (@navalny) January 17, 2020 × "The Russian constitution is abominable," he said on Twitter, adding it allowed authorities to usurp power. "No need to protect it." Observers have said Putin's proposals have caught Kremlin critics off guard and managed to drive a new wedge between members of the Russian opposition.

Russia: Activists take aim at Vladimir Putin in march against repression

What started as a Facebook post during a wave of mass protests in Russia eight years ago has turned into a rights group that helps arrested demonstrators one in increasing demand as police crackdown hard on opposition rallies.

What started as a Facebook post during a wave of mass protests in Russia eight years ago has turned into a rights group that helps arrested demonstrators one in increasing demand as police crackdown hard on opposition rallies. OVD-Info, which has around 27 staff, more than 300 volunteers and a small office in Moscow, is the first port of call for those detained by police at protests. The group has a 24-hour hotline, a large team of lawyers and is seen as a reliable source for the number of overall arrests at events The group started in December 2011, when two young Muscovites were looking for their friends who had been detained at rallies against Vladimir Putin's planned return to the Kremlin after a term as prime minister. The two men, Grigory Okhotin and Daniil Beilinson, scoured police stations and wrote up a list of the detainees that they posted on Facebook. It was the first of many posts by OVD-Info, whose name derives from an abbreviation for the police station. Eight years on, the NGO says it aims to make sure no one faces the vagaries of the Russian criminal justice system alone. The group has been in the spotlight over the last month, as some 3,000 people have been detained at ongoing Moscow protests calling for fair local elections. Out of these, 13 face serious criminal charges for allegedly organising "mass disorder" and violence against police. "All the same, I can assure you that they were protesting peacefully," said 54-year-old Alla Frolova, the group's legal coordinator. Confusing procedures During and after a protest, OVD-Info is the first number to call for those detained. It notes the police stations where those arrested are heading to and sends lawyers. The NGO tries to deploy lawyers promptly, as police stations in the country are known for their confusing procedures and the risk of violence against detainees. "They do hide some things from us because the law gets broken many times," said Frolova, who nevertheless stresses that the group seeks dialogue with police. One of those to receive assistance from the NGO recently was Moscow student Alexander Finiarel, 24, who was detained at demonstrations on July 27 and August 3. OVD-Info provided him with a lawyer free of charge after his friends reported him to the group as among the detained. "OVD-Info gave us some advice on the right way to behave with the police. And they calmed us down, basically," said Finiarel. "We had a sense that they were looking out for us and helping us." The NGO, whose staff are mainly in their 20s and 30s, uses social media and a chat on the Telegram messenger service to gain information on detentions and post updates. The group is part of a "new generation of rights activists," says Frolova even if one of its major donors is a long-running Russian rights group Memorial, which documents Soviet-era persecutions as well as highlighting current abuses. Psychological help Frolova was in court on Wednesday to watch a case against Konstantin Kotov, an activist who risks five years in jail for breaking various laws around holding protests. Kotov has a free lawyer provided by OVD-Info, Maria Eismont. Eismont is a former journalist who retrained as a lawyer. The recent wave of detentions has kept her busy. "As soon as I get home before I have time to drink a glass of wine, they're calling me," she said with a smile. She goes to help detainees at police stations and later represents them in court. "This is a political battle, not a legal one... I'm not naive and I know the verdict isn't decided here (in court). But in any case, all the documents have to be here." "Afterwards there's always the chance of winning at the European Court of Human Rights." When cases have gone through courts in Russia, the NGO says it files as many appeals as possible with the European court. OVD-Info also receives a grant from the rights watchdog Council of Europe which accounted for almost 35 per cent of its budget last year. The rest comes from donations and fundraising. After the protests began this summer, OVD-Info says it received more than 100,000 euros in donations in July, a record. Leonid Drabkin, 27, who is in charge of fundraising, says that such generosity is hardly surprising. "When you're a light in the darkness, people are bound to trust you."

For Russia's detained protesters, rights group is first on the scene

Russia's state communications watchdog has asked Google to stop advertising "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-moscow-acknowledges-mysterious-rocket-explosion-involved-nuclear-workers-242103">illegal mass events</a>" on its YouTube video platform, it said on Sunday.

Tens of thousands of Russians staged what observers called the country's biggest political protest for eight years on Saturday, defying a crackdown to demand free elections to Moscow's city legislature. Multiple YouTube channels broadcast the event live.

The watchdog, Roscomnadzor, said some entities had been buying advertising tools from YouTube, such as push notifications, in order to spread information about illegal mass protests, including those aimed at disrupting elections.

It said Russia would consider a failure by Google to respond to the request as "interference in its sovereign affairs" and "hostile influence (over) and obstruction of democratic elections in Russia".

If the company does not take measures to prevent events from being promoted on its platforms, Russia reserves the right to respond accordingly, Roscomnadzor said, without giving details.

Over the past five years, Russia has introduced tougher laws requiring search engines to delete some search results, messaging services to share encryption keys with security services, and social networks to store Russian users' personal data on servers within the country.

A Google spokesperson in Russia declined to comment on Sunday.

Moscow has a track record of putting regulatory pressure on Google, one of the main rivals of Russian internet search company Yandex.

In late 2018, Russia fined Google 500,000 roubles ($7,663) for failing to comply with a legal requirement to remove certain entries from its search results.

Earlier that year, Google removed a YouTube advert by Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny after authorities complained that the videos violated a law prohibiting campaigning ahead of a vote for regional governors.

Russia's state communications watchdog has asked Google to stop advertising "illegal mass events" on its YouTube video platform, it said on Sunday. Tens of thousands of Russians staged what observers called the country's biggest political protest for eight years on Saturday, defying a crackdown to demand free elections to Moscow's city legislature.

Russia's state communications watchdog has asked Google to stop advertising "illegal mass events" on its YouTube video platform, it said on Sunday. Tens of thousands of Russians staged what observers called the country's biggest political protest for eight years on Saturday, defying a crackdown to demand free elections to Moscow's city legislature. Multiple YouTube channels broadcast the event live. The watchdog, Roscomnadzor, said some entities had been buying advertising tools from YouTube, such as push notifications, in order to spread information about illegal mass protests, including those aimed at disrupting elections. It said Russia would consider a failure by Google to respond to the request as "interference in its sovereign affairs" and "hostile influence (over) and obstruction of democratic elections in Russia". If the company does not take measures to prevent events from being promoted on its platforms, Russia reserves the right to respond accordingly, Roscomnadzor said, without giving details. Over the past five years, Russia has introduced tougher laws requiring search engines to delete some search results, messaging services to share encryption keys with security services, and social networks to store Russian users' personal data on servers within the country. A Google spokesperson in Russia declined to comment on Sunday. Moscow has a track record of putting regulatory pressure on Google, one of the main rivals of Russian internet search company Yandex. In late 2018, Russia fined Google 500,000 roubles ($7,663) for failing to comply with a legal requirement to remove certain entries from its search results. Earlier that year, Google removed a YouTube advert by Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny after authorities complained that the videos violated a law prohibiting campaigning ahead of a vote for regional governors.

Russia tells Google not to advertise 'illegal' events after election protests

Russian opposition supporters plan a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-accuses-us-of-meddling-over-publication-of-protest-map-241738">major protest in Moscow</a> on Saturday after police detained thousands at recent demonstrations that have been among the largest since President Vladimir Putin's return to the Kremlin in 2012.

In recent weeks, thousands have attended street protests calling for free and fair elections after the exclusion of several opposition figures, including allies of top Putin critic Alexei Navalny, from local Moscow elections next month.

Riot police and the national guard have used more violent tactics than previously and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/1400-arrested-at-moscow-election-protest-238988">detained more than 2,000 at the last two rallies</a>, which were not authorised by city officials.&nbsp;

Most opposition candidates who have been banned from participating in the vote have been jailed for violating protest laws. &nbsp;

A dozen protesters including university students face criminal charges of "mass disorder" that call for lengthy jail terms, despite their supporters insisting protests were peaceful.

Saturday's rally has been authorised which means participants should not face detention for protesting at the agreed location, but Navalny, who is currently in jail, has urged supporters to walk peacefully through the city afterwards.

Moscow police and the powerful Investigative Committee issued a warning against participating in unsanctioned protests which it said would be "immediately halted."

Showing the movement's appeal to young Russians, popular electronic and rap musicians are expected to play at the rally and mainstream celebrities have announced they will attend.

One of Russia's most famous rappers, Oxxxymiron, urged his fans to go, as did a star YouTube blogger Yury Dud.

"Let's not accept it as normal when innocent people are thrown in jail or harshly beaten up by police," Dud wrote on Instagram to his 2.3 million followers.

'Attempt to gag us'

The latest demonstrations come as the authorities this week mounted their harshest attack yet on Navalny's team, focusing on his anti-corruption foundation which publishes investigations of officials close to Putin.

On Thursday investigators raided the foundation's office as part of a probe into alleged acceptance of donations of laundered money and a court froze the foundation's accounts.

"This is the most aggressive attempt yet to gag us," Navalny wrote in a blog entry he issued through lawyers while serving a 30-day sentence.

One of the foundation's lawyers, Lyubov Sobol, has been on hunger strike for weeks after being refused as a candidate in Moscow.&nbsp;

"These are all acts of political intimidation, political repression," she told journalists on Friday, condemning the criminal cases launched against activists as "fabricated and politically motivated."

As he enters his third decade in power, Putin's approval ratings have dropped significantly in recent months and critics say authorities fear any outlet calling for wider political change.

Moscow has even accused the US of encouraging people to attend protests after the embassy posted the route of a recent march along with warnings to avoid the area.

"The repressive scenario that the authorities are relying on can probably dampen down open discontent but is hardly likely to reach the root of the problem," wrote Vedomosti daily in an editorial.

"A large section of society is not represented in power."

Russian opposition supporters plan a major protest in Moscow on Saturday after police detained thousands at recent demonstrations that have been among the largest since President Vladimir Putin's return to the Kremlin in 2012.

Russian opposition supporters plan a major protest in Moscow on Saturday after police detained thousands at recent demonstrations that have been among the largest since President Vladimir Putin's return to the Kremlin in 2012. In recent weeks, thousands have attended street protests calling for free and fair elections after the exclusion of several opposition figures, including allies of top Putin critic Alexei Navalny, from local Moscow elections next month. Riot police and the national guard have used more violent tactics than previously and detained more than 2,000 at the last two rallies, which were not authorised by city officials. Most opposition candidates who have been banned from participating in the vote have been jailed for violating protest laws. A dozen protesters including university students face criminal charges of "mass disorder" that call for lengthy jail terms, despite their supporters insisting protests were peaceful. Saturday's rally has been authorised which means participants should not face detention for protesting at the agreed location, but Navalny, who is currently in jail, has urged supporters to walk peacefully through the city afterwards. Moscow police and the powerful Investigative Committee issued a warning against participating in unsanctioned protests which it said would be "immediately halted." Showing the movement's appeal to young Russians, popular electronic and rap musicians are expected to play at the rally and mainstream celebrities have announced they will attend. One of Russia's most famous rappers, Oxxxymiron, urged his fans to go, as did a star YouTube blogger Yury Dud. "Let's not accept it as normal when innocent people are thrown in jail or harshly beaten up by police," Dud wrote on Instagram to his 2.3 million followers. 'Attempt to gag us' The latest demonstrations come as the authorities this week mounted their harshest attack yet on Navalny's team, focusing on his anti-corruption foundation which publishes investigations of officials close to Putin. On Thursday investigators raided the foundation's office as part of a probe into alleged acceptance of donations of laundered money and a court froze the foundation's accounts. "This is the most aggressive attempt yet to gag us," Navalny wrote in a blog entry he issued through lawyers while serving a 30-day sentence. One of the foundation's lawyers, Lyubov Sobol, has been on hunger strike for weeks after being refused as a candidate in Moscow. "These are all acts of political intimidation, political repression," she told journalists on Friday, condemning the criminal cases launched against activists as "fabricated and politically motivated." As he enters his third decade in power, Putin's approval ratings have dropped significantly in recent months and critics say authorities fear any outlet calling for wider political change. Moscow has even accused the US of encouraging people to attend protests after the embassy posted the route of a recent march along with warnings to avoid the area. "The repressive scenario that the authorities are relying on can probably dampen down open discontent but is hardly likely to reach the root of the problem," wrote Vedomosti daily in an editorial. "A large section of society is not represented in power."

Russian opposition plans major Moscow protest after crackdown

russia-protest

Russia Protest, News on Russia Protest, stories on Russia Protest, articles on Russia Protest, Russia Protest stories at Wion, Russia Protest news, Russia Protest latest news

russia protest