Stories from Moscow · Russia

Scientists have trained an artificial intelligence model named Epicure to perceive the taste of food. The model analyzes dishes by examining the chemical composition of ingredients to create a mathematical map of the food.

Dmitry Peskov stated that the current ceasefire proposal is a unilateral move by the Russian Federation. Russian President Vladimir Putin will make the final decision regarding a potential ceasefire for Victory Day, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on April 30. Russia and Ukraine have each proposed unilateral ceasefires for different periods, while continuing mutual attacks.

Russian military personnel have reportedly complained about extortion within the army. He alleged that soldiers were forced to pay money to avoid physical abuse, including being tied to trees and being beaten.

The FSB reported the detention of seven individuals planning a terrorist attack against Roskomnadzor leadership. The group allegedly planned to place a bomb under a vehicle.

Dmitry Kazakov, a union chairman and teacher, announced his resignation from teaching following proposals to reintroduce spiritual and moral culture lessons. Kazakov noted that similar subjects were taught to 5th and 6th graders before being canceled in 2024.

Twelve major Russian oil companies, including Rosneft, Lukoil, Gazprom, Gazprom Neft, Tatneft, Surgutneftegas, and Gazprom, will sign agreements to stabilize the domestic oil products market. The documents aim to regulate supply volumes and retail prices for gasoline and diesel.

Russia has passed a Federal Law on creative industries defining 16 specific sectors within the industry. The legislation aims to provide an institutional base for development and support domestic GDP growth.

Financial indicators for Russian enterprises in April were better than those in March, according to the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs (RSPP). Approximately 15 percent of surveyed companies noted an increase in market demand. Some business owners, such as Unis Taymur Khanly of an elevator company in Saint Petersburg, expressed skepticism regarding this optimism. The RSPP noted that companies are complaining less about shrinking orders and rising procurement prices. Russia exported nearly 4 million tons of wheat in April, according to preliminary data. This figure represents more than a 1.5-fold increase compared to the same period last year. The data was reported by Business FM Russia.

The Russian ruble lost 6.5 percent against the Chinese yuan during April, representing a loss of 76 kopecks. At the close of the week, the rate was 10 rubles and 98 kopecks.

The cafe has been closed since March 2024. One fire brigade unit was reported on the scene of a fire at the establishment.