Russia’s constitutional “referendum” delivered its expected outcome — President Putin can serve until 2036 — but an elaborate spectacle of public affirmation was vital to his legitimacy.
Author: ANDREW HIGGINS
Hit Hard by Coronavirus, Russia Holds a Mostly Mask-Free Victory Parade
Tens of thousands turned out for the delayed annual celebration of Russia’s defeat of Nazi Germany but few, including veterans in their 80s and 90s, took precautions.
Political Grip Shaky, Belarus Leader Blames Longtime Ally: Russia
Aleksandr G. Lukashenko, who used to call his political foes stooges of the West, is now trying to play on anti-Russian sentiment at home and abroad.
Putin Says U.S. Is in ‘Deep Internal Crisis’
The Russian leader described an America poisoned by racism and violence and paralyzed by the refusal of President Trump’s opponents to accept the 2016 election results.
Prague Says Ricin Plot Was a Hoax, and Moves to Expel 2 Russians
Prime Minister Andrej Babis of the Czech Republic said a feud between employees of the Russian Embassy had led to “made-up information about a planned attack on Czech politicians.”
Russia Jumps on George Floyd Killing as Proof of U.S. Hypocrisy
The turmoil in America has served two Kremlin goals: deflecting criticism of its own record and underscoring its message that protests cause chaos.
Vladimir Lopukhin, Who Held Key Post When U.S.S.R. Fell, Dies at 68
Mr. Lopukhin, who died of the novel coronavirus, was in charge of the energy ministry at a time of tumultuous change in Russia’s oil and gas industry.
Putin Sets New Date for Vote on Extending His Rule
His political program and ratings derailed by the coronavirus, President Vladimir Putin of Russia is pushing to get back on track.
Putin Speaks, Officials Shrug, and Doctors Are Caught in the Middle
A botched effort to reward people keeping the coronavirus in check leaves doctors and nurses who demand their due facing scrutiny.
A ‘Breakdown of Trust’: Pandemic Corrodes Church-State Ties in Russia
Even as the monasteries of the Orthodox Church are besieged by the coronavirus, apocalyptic-minded priests balk at state restrictions on public worship.