Citing the coronavirus, at least 12 Russian cities will skip military parades that President Vladimir Putin set for June 24, hoping to boost his image before a national referendum.
Author: Anton Troianovski
Russians Are Angry, but Putin’s Foes Struggle to Seize the Moment
The main opposition leader, Aleksei A. Navalny, has seen his YouTube audience triple during the coronavirus crisis. But street protest, his most potent weapon, is off the table.
As Virus Spreads in Russia’s Caucasus, Rumors Swirl Over Strongman’s Health
Official numbers are still low, but signs are emerging by the day that the toll across the region is growing. And the Chechen leader, Ramzan Kadyrov, was reported hospitalized.
As Coronavirus Overruns Russia, Doctors Are Dying on the Front Lines
Facing dire shortages of protective gear and amid fears that the worst is yet to come, more than 180 medical workers are reported to have fallen victim so far and thousands have been infected.
As Local Health Systems Buckle, Russia’s Oligarchs Take Charge
The growing role of business tycoons in the fight against the coronavirus highlights the weaknesses of the state apparatus built by President Vladimir V. Putin.
In Pandemic’s Grip, Russia Sees Spike in Age-Old Bane: Drinking
The widespread, false belief that alcohol will protect drinkers from the coronavirus is helping drive an increase in liquor sales and domestic violence.
Putin’s Bleak Covid-19 Admission: ‘We Don’t Have Much to Brag About’
Russia’s president acknowledged that his country risks being overwhelmed by the coronavirus.
Turning the Tables, Russia Sends Virus Aid to U.S.
A planeload of coronavirus aid to New York was a propaganda coup for the Kremlin — tempered by an intensifying epidemic at home.
Pandemic Mars Putin’s Coronation and Endangers Russia’s Veterans
President Vladimir Putin’s grand plans to celebrate the 75th anniversary of victory in World War II, and his own leadership, may be foiled by the coronavirus, which also threatens war heroes.
Not Just a Crisis: Coronavirus Is a Test for Putin’s Security State
The outbreak offers an opportunity to examine the capabilities of Russia’s expanding surveillance apparatus, and gives Vladimir Putin a chance to prove his indispensability.