Stories from Moscow · Russia

Two siblings are seeking new families after being left in a hospital and subsequently placed in an orphanage. The girls were held in a children's home for four to five months after their mother fell ill. They have older siblings who are unable to adopt them for various reasons.

Russian President Vladimir Putin promised to take retaliatory measures after several Chinese organizations were included in a twentieth package of sanctions. Alexey Maslov, director of the Institute of Eurasian and African Studies at Moscow State University, noted that China has repeatedly stated it does not recognize Western sanctions. The shift toward Chinese products is described as being more price-optimized than Western alternatives. This development is expected to have long-lasting consequences for global trade dynamics. President Vladimir Putin stated during a meeting in the Kremlin with representatives from Dagestan that decisions regarding compensation for those affected by flooding should favor the people. The statement was made in the context of addressing the needs of victims in the region. Putin said that in cases of doubt, decisions must be made in favor of the citizens.

A multi-year audit of the LIMS database has resulted in the disqualification of the 291st Russian athlete. Violations were identified across 22 different sports, with the most impact found in track and field involving 200 cases. The investigation stems from 2019 when WADA experts gained access to Moscow laboratory samples, leading to previous accusations of data manipulation and Russia's suspension from the Olympics. The investigation stems from 2019 findings by WADA experts regarding access to Moscow-based samples and subsequent allegations of data manipulation. These findings contributed to Russia's suspension from Olympic competition. Canadian long jumper Alisha Newman has been disqualified for 20 months following anti-doping rule violations. The bronze medalist from the Paris Limbic Games had all results since August 23, 2025, annulled.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that while Russian economic expenses are rising and the economy is contracting, these measures are necessary for stability. The government is seeking to accelerate economic growth to reach a medium-term target of 3 percent. The economy is reportedly being exhausted and destroyed by war, leading to a decline rather than stabilization. The growth rate was previously explained at 2.5 percent but has since shifted. The current stability is described as a transition from rapid growth to a slower pace. Analysts noted that the economy was previously unprepared for these shifts. Analysts suggest the economy is being disrupted by conflict and may begin to fall rather than stabilize. This downturn is causing job losses and layoffs as the situation becomes more concerning.

Russian Sport Minister Mikhail Dikterev stated that the International Gymnastics Federation may announce the eligibility of Russian junior gymnasts to participate in international competitions using the national flag and anthem. This shift could impact ecology, long-term educational programs, and small business support, according to reports from Kremlin-linked Telegram channels. Regional budgets are currently being sustained through end-of-year transfers, property taxes, and small business revenue. Authorities are reportedly looking to internal sources by increasing pressure on the population and entrepreneurs. This development follows ongoing discussions regarding the participation of Russian athletes in global sporting events. The upcoming FIG meeting is scheduled to take place in Sharm El Sheikh from May 16 to May 17.

Central Bank Governor Elvira Nabiullina stated that the mass implementation of the digital ruble on September 1 will not be mandatory for citizens. The rollout will only apply to credit organizations and certain trade and service enterprises. The Bank of Russia will begin testing payments using free requisites for budget purposes in July. Alla Bakina of the Bank of Russia's payment system noted that participants are testing new types of operations as functionality expands. Alla Bakina, director of the National Payment System department, stated that over 100,000 operations have been completed during testing. This follows a March statement by Central Bank head Elvira Nabiulina that mass implementation of the digital ruble will not be mandatory for citizens starting September 1.

President Vladimir Putin announced that Dagestan Governor Sergey Melikov is transitioning to a different role. The transition follows the specific procedure where the Dagestan leader is elected by the People's Assembly upon the President's nomination. The Dagestan leadership transition involves the head of the republic being elected by deputies of the People's Assembly upon the recommendation of the President. The process accounts for the multi-ethnic composition of the republic, according to the report. Russian officials are meeting with regional representatives to discuss the candidacy for the new governor of Dagestan. President Vladimir Putin announced the conclusion of Sergei Melikov's term as the head of Dagestan. The source did not specify a reason for the departure or a successor. Sergey Melikov commented on media reports regarding his potential departure from his post.

Russian authorities are reportedly recruiting foreign nationals for military service through various channels including individual agencies and advertising. A minister stated that 2 million people are involved, with 1.6 million potentially subject to specific directives. The exact number of recruited individuals remains unconfirmed. Some recruited persons are reportedly leaving their home countries to join Russian forces. Dmitry Medvedev, Deputy Chairman of the Security Council of Russia, stated that 127,000 people have joined the armed forces this year, with an additional 10,000 volunteers. Medvedev noted that a total of 450,000 people have served as a result of all military contracts. These figures were reported in relation to upcoming Victory Day observations.

Denis Butsayev, a former Russian deputy natural resources minister, has reportedly fled the country. The move follows the beginning of a Kremlin elite purge and occurs amid threats of prosecution.

Russian lawmakers have proposed a program to euthanize stray dogs due to the failure of existing sterilization efforts. These amendments would replace the existing OSVV program and grant regional authorities the power to determine their own management practices for stray animals. The Constitutional Court has also been involved in the proceedings, according to the source. The proposed method focuses on removing stray animals rather than addressing the underlying causes of the population growth. The source noted that previous approaches have failed to implement effective solutions or accountability for animal breeding. The proposed rules include using various identification methods such as collars, pendants, tags, or ear markings.