Stories from Russia

The Russian ruble strengthened to below 75 rubles per US dollar at the start of May. The Russian Ministry of Finance is scheduled to resume budget rule operations next week after a two-month pause.

Authorities in Tuapse denied reports that women were involved in cleaning up a burning beach following a recent incident.

Airfare to Georgia has decreased by approximately 20 percent following the recent May holidays, according to reports from Moscow. Prices for airfare to Georgia have risen by approximately 3-4% in euros. Airfare prices for flights to Georgia have seen a slight increase.

Emergency responders in the Moscow region assisted a Chinese driver, identified as Li Yang, after his vehicle became stuck in a snowdrift.

Fires occurred at a marine terminal and an oil refinery, resulting in a petroleum product spill. The report indicates these incidents took place at the facilities. A fire has spread at a Russian oil terminal, according to a recent report.

Three people died in Ukraine on Sunday following Russian drone attacks. The strikes targeted Russian port infrastructure in Primors. Reports indicate a missile carrier and a ghost fleet oil tanker were also hit. The attacks occurred during ongoing hostilities in the region.

The head of VTB Bank is urging for the legalization of cryptocurrencies. This call comes as the bank explores potential operations in the crypto space. Moscow Exchange is planning to offer regulated cryptocurrency operations by the end of the year.

Regulated cryptocurrency operations are anticipated to be in place by the end of the year. This development suggests a move towards greater oversight and integration of digital assets within the financial landscape. The specific regulatory framework remains under discussion.

The head of VTB Bank has called for the acceleration of cryptocurrency market legalization in Russia. The call for legalization indicates a desire for clearer frameworks governing crypto operations.

Russia will transition to a year-round military conscription model starting in 2026, moving away from two seasonal periods. The Ministry of Defense aims to recruit 261,000 conscripts by the end of December.