Facebook hired a Ukrainian group battling Russian disinformation to flag misleading posts. But critics say the fact checkers’ work veers into activism.
Author: Anton Troianovski
Protests Swell in Russia’s Far East in a Stark New Challenge to Putin
Demonstrations in the city of Khabarovsk drew tens of thousands for the third straight weekend. The anger, fueled by the arrest of a popular governor, has little precedent in modern Russia.
Strains Show in Russia’s Make-Believe Politics
The nationalist Vladimir Zhirinovsky has been forced to disavow protests over the arrest of a governor from his own party, underscoring growing domestic volatility.
Historic Arctic Heat Wave Roasts Siberia
Wildfires are spreading. The mosquitoes are ravenous. People are shielding their windows from the midnight sun with foil and blankets.
Russians Eat Burgers in Gloves. Should Everyone?
Status-conscious fast-food joints across Eastern Europe have offered their diners disposable gloves for years. The idea may find a wider audience in the pandemic era.
Putin Wants Parades Ahead of Key Vote. Local Officials Aren’t So Sure.
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.
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.