Stories from Moscow · Russia

Russia and China have signed documents solidifying a comprehensive strategic partnership, including agreements on energy, technology, and economic cooperation. These documents represent a record number of agreements, with over forty signed. The signing ceremony took place in Moscow. Specifics of the partnership were not immediately disclosed. The signing occurred amidst heightened geopolitical tensions. The agreements were signed on Saturday, May 23, 2026. Specific details of the documents were not immediately released. Moscow has confirmed the transfer of 330 square kilometers of territory to China. This transfer was reportedly agreed upon by Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping. This move comes as China increases its presence in space and aims to test new technologies.

The Russian government has approved draft bills to regulate cryptocurrency. Russia's tax authority has reported on payments made by cryptocurrency miners. The authority is monitoring mining operations. Over $182 million was lost in 2025 due to scam cases involving cryptocurrency transfers. The tax authority noted a shift in sales structure, with Russia's share in sales increasing to 120,000 rubles. Specific figures or details about the payments were not disclosed. The central bank considers cryptocurrency a risky asset, but authorities have determined the framework for regulating cryptocurrencies in Russia. The Moscow Exchange plans to begin cryptocurrency operations in 2027. Central bank head Elvira Nabiullina does not support using cryptocurrency as a payment method in Russia.

Soviet endocrinologists were the first in the world to develop an effective path to treating type 2 diabetes by controlling blood sugar. Another step was disproving the myth that diabetes is an incurable progressive disease. Research has since proven that diabetes can be managed.

A 13-year-old in Russia faces potential transfer to a juvenile offender school.

A film event showcasing excellent works and featuring Finns is scheduled to take place in September. The Kommersant FM source indicated that directors and their works would be seen.

A Russian state corporation, identified as 'RG', has been tasked with seeking funds through privatization to support the budget. Kommersant FM reported that Russia is considering additional privatization measures to generate funds for the national budget. Discussions regarding Russia's privatization efforts included participation in share placement, potentially involving a two percent stake.

Scammers are using tactics such as requesting policy replacements, prompting mobile app downloads to gain phone access, and arranging medical examinations that lead to recommendations for expensive, imported treatments requiring loans. They also make calls impersonating pension fund representatives. Scammers are reportedly using phone calls to trick individuals into revealing codes, enabling them to withdraw money from credit accounts, particularly targeting pensions and government services.

Russia is expanding benefits for military families and veterans, including mortgage rates at 2% per annum and exemption from land tax. The package also provides compensation for utility payments, educational benefits for children, and social guarantees.

Indonesia is targeting a doubling of its trade with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) through a Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

The number of bankruptcies among sole traders in Russia increased by 29% year-on-year in the first quarter of 2026. This resulted in 8,146 cases during that period.