Stories from moscow · Russia

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.

Moscow emergency services warn of three days of snowfall starting this evening. The Federal Passenger Company reported that the weather conditions may persist until the evening of April 28. Local damage to infrastructure has been reported due to the accumulation. Snowfall in Moscow reached a depth of 12 centimeters on Monday. Wet snow is accumulating on trees, causing some to break. Authorities have advised Moscow residents to avoid standing under trees or parking vehicles beneath them. Tuesday's weather will not improve, with a cyclonic vortex continuing to generate snow showers, with up to 13 millimeters expected, representing 35% of the monthly norm. Nighttime temperatures will be around zero with frost up to minus 2 degrees Celsius, and daytime temperatures will remain between plus 1 and plus 3 degrees Celsius. Approximately two dozen trees fell, damaging parked cars and power lines.

Iranian Ambassador to Russia Kazem Jalali stated in Moscow that US and Israeli military actions have caused over 3,000 Iranian civilian deaths. These casualties include 220 children and 250 women. Jalali asserted that Iran has achieved victory in the war imposed by the US and Israel. He also claimed the US has not taken negotiations seriously. US President Trump stated on the 23rd that he feels no pressure to end the conflict or reach an agreement with Iran. Iranian Ambassador to Russia Kakhim Gharali stated at a Moscow reception that the United States has not taken US-Iran negotiations seriously. The ambassador said that full lifting of sanctions and prevention of further US and Israeli aggression are prerequisites for progress.