Stories from Russia · Russia

Snow in Russia may cease melting due to ongoing global warming trends. This phenomenon could have environmental and hydrological consequences for the region. The exact mechanisms and future impacts are still being assessed.

Roskomnadzor, Russia's media regulator, has launched an investigation into the TV channel 'Rossiya 1'. The probe concerns offensive language used by host Vladimir Solovyov towards Bonya during a talk show on April 16. Russian authorities are reviewing a television channel due to remarks made by one of its hosts. The reaction to a war now in Europe is being discussed, referencing a 12-day war from a year ago. The specific remarks and the channel involved are not yet clear.

Russian forces have liberated two settlements in the special operation zone. A court in Saint Petersburg has designated the Russian LGBT Network, a major inter-regional movement for queer rights, as an extremist organization. Additionally, a court in Yaroslavl has designated the LGBT movement 'Kalista' as extremist. Russian authorities have designated the LGBT network 'Calista' as an extremist organization. The court press service stated the group's activities aim to reform and effectively destroy fundamental Russian spiritual and moral values. Other groups declared extremist in the last 10 days include the Samara-based organization 'Irida', the 'Vykhod' group, and an LGBT resource center in Yekaterinburg. Organized criminal groups in Russia are conducting extortion rackets involving various services and documents. Extortion amounts for minor services range from 10,000 to 20,000 rubles.

Russia and Turkey are facilitating transactions between their businesses outside of traditional banking channels. This system allows for internal transactions without releasing them outside the perimeter of the banks involved. Russian businesses are aware of this system, while the intention is for it not to be known by Europeans and Americans. Methods used by Americans and now Europeans against Turkey include threats and blackmail.

Russia aims for 3-4% annual growth in labor productivity to achieve more output with fewer personnel. The labor market is largely exhausted, necessitating a review of educational programs to compensate for personnel shortages. This goal is part of broader economic objectives.

Russia is advocating for a multipolar world order, asserting its right to defend its geopolitical interests on the global stage. The country said its role in promoting peace and has proposed conventions on cybersecurity. Russia's stance is presented as an alternative to a unipolar world dominated by the United States and the collective West. The broadcast also mentioned the military actions in Ukraine, including strikes on drone launch sites and infrastructure.

The Russian military's Northern grouping reported the destruction of 29 heavy combat artillery systems and 32 command posts over a 24-hour period. The report states that over 190 items were destroyed, including 14 vehicles, artillery pieces, and mortars. Additionally, the military claims to have neutralized 37 command posts, 3 communication stations, and 4 field ammunition depots. These operations were part of ongoing combat actions by the Northern grouping.

Russian organizations searching for missing soldiers are reportedly facing difficulties, with some posts about deceased soldiers being classified as prohibited information. This raises concerns about the transparency of casualty reporting and the handling of missing persons. The report claims the state uses propaganda to mask negative actions, presenting war as a special operation and darkness as light.

A farm associated with the imperial family was established not only for entertainment but also for serious agricultural production, including sheep and cattle. The initiative aimed to adapt animals to the local climate and distribute successful breeding practices across the country. The farm included facilities for cows, a forester's house, a dairy, and a residence for the imperial family.

A significant portion of the Russian population remains passive regarding the ongoing conflict, neither actively supporting nor publicly opposing it. While proponents of the war are few, and anti-war protesters are also scarce, the majority appears to occupy a neutral or undecided stance.