Stories from Moscow · Russia

Russian officials are considering the abolition of traditional school homework assignments. The proposal follows the widespread availability of artificial intelligence tools capable of completing academic tasks instantly. Anzor Muzaev, head of the Rosbardzor, stated in an interview with TAS that the current homework system is losing effectiveness. The discussion aims to address the impact of neural networks on educational efficiency. Anzor Muzaev, head of Rosobrnadzor, stated in an interview with TASS that Russia is discussing the possibility of canceling school homework. Roskomnadzor head Anzor Muzaev stated that Russian schools are discussing the potential cancellation of traditional homework assignments. He noted that neural networks can now instantly complete any exercise assigned to students. Konstantin Tkhostov, director of Lyceum No.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov compared Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's international actions to a character from a Krylov fable. Lavrov stated that Zelensky's behavior resembles a small dog barking at an elephant that remains unbothered. The comments were made during a response to journalist Pavel Zarubin regarding Zelensky's nuclear rhetoric toward US authorities. Russian officials used the metaphor to characterize the perceived insignificance of Ukraine's diplomatic pressure.

Soviet actor Lev Shimelov has died at the age of 96. The cause of death was reported as a stroke. Shimelov was a prominent figure in Soviet variety entertainment and worked at the Moscow Musical Theatre. He will be buried at the Vagankovo Cemetery. Russian People's Artist Robert Lepedevsky has died at the age of 89. A preliminary funeral ceremony is scheduled for April 30 at the Novodevichy Cemetery, according to TASS reporting on his family. Lepedevsky was a founding figure of the television program 'Spokoynoy nochi, malyshi' and served at the Puppet Theater. He was known for his work in puppetry and roles such as 'Conferencier Aplombov'. The source noted he dedicated over 65 years to the stage.

The Preobrazhensky district in Moscow became the leader in premium new construction sales in 2026. A high ratio of available units to sales in specific areas indicates developers are struggling to move inventory. Analysts from Incomnedvizhimost reported on secondary market apartment prices in Moscow. The Vostochny district recorded prices of approximately 203,500 rubles per square meter. The Beryuleva-Zapadnaya district averaged 205,000 rubles per square meter. Other affordable districts identified include Beryuleva-Vostochnaya and Krasnaya. The median price per square meter for new builds in Moscow's Central Administrative District exceeded 1 million rubles at the end of April. This represents an increase of nearly 27 percent compared to the same period last year, according to a study by NKUM Real Estate. Growth was also noted in the South-Western District.

Two people were hospitalized following a suspected poisoning incident at a fitness club in Moscow's Khlebozavodsky Proyezd. Four people have been injured in the incident. Thirty visitors and employees were evacuated from the USSR fitness center.

Russian researchers have developed a neural network algorithm to accurately determine leaf counts on plant surfaces using Meteor-M satellite data. The project was implemented by the Space Research Institute, Moscow State University, and the Federal Scientific Center for Biological Systems and Agrotechnologies of the Russian Academy of Sciences. The algorithm monitors how plants absorb sunlight and transpire water. This technology aims to improve environmental monitoring and agricultural efficiency. The satellites utilize Russian multi-zonal imaging complexes.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stated that President Zelenskyy's push for immediate EU accession dates is problematic. Lavrov warned that admitting a country with a history of revanchism seeking revenge for national humiliation would not end well for Europe.

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the 'Demographic Turning Point in Russia' conference. He stated that improving the nation's demographic situation requires unified efforts from businesses, non-profit organizations, the state, media, and religious groups. Putin said the importance of raising future generations based on multi-generational and large-family values. The remarks were made during a formal greeting to conference participants. President Vladimir Putin has called for increased cooperation across multiple sectors to support demographic growth. President Vladimir Putin called for a unified effort to improve Russia's demographic situation during a conference titled 'Demographic Turning Point in Russia, Paths and Achievements'. The initiative aims to address long-term population trends through collective social and institutional cooperation.

Spartak Moscow defeated Nizhny Novgorod with a score of 2-1 in a Russian Premier League match. Goals for Spartak were scored by Sesackiel Barco and Roman Zovnin, while Adrian Balbo scored for the opposition. This victory moves Spartak to fourth place in the league standings. Nizhny Novgorod has now extended its winless streak in the RPL to six matches.

Microfinance organizations in Russia have seen loan rejection rates drop to their lowest levels since 2022. However, major financial institutions are increasing requirements for loan reliability due to rising risks. Banks are now classifying loans as high risk if debt servicing exceeds 50% of a borrower's income. This shift follows new requirements for increased capital reserves to manage credit risk. The Bank of Russia has raised standards for loan reliability, specifically targeting high-risk borrowers. Loans where debt servicing exceeds 50% of income are now classified as high risk. Consequently, banks are less willing to approve credit under current high-interest conditions. Russia's GDP fell by 1.5% year-on-year in February. Presidential Administration Chief Maxim Oreshkin attributed economic dynamics to labor shortages rather than internet restrictions.