Stories from Russia

The Russian Ministry of Digital Development is working on a scheme to mask international internet traffic. Natalia Kaspersky, head of the Domestic Software Association, warned that imposing payments on international mobile traffic could lead to price increases for businesses. Russian developers realized approximately 230 apartment sales under shared participation agreements during the first three months of the year. Brokers suggest quarterly adjustments are primarily linked to structural changes in the segment. Developers have been revising lot pools to form a balanced supply structure amid slowing sales rates. The premium segment added two new projects during the first quarter. The Russian Prosecutor General's Office identified a fraud scheme involving illegal resident registration and offshore control.

A 29-year-old woman, identified as the daughter of a general and former State Duma deputy, died in a car accident in Moscow. The driver, who was reportedly intoxicated, lost control of the vehicle and struck a courier, killing him instantly. The crash also involved a second vehicle resulting in the death of a woman who leaves two children behind. The incident involved a high-speed loss of control, according to the report. A fire covering over 1,000 square meters occurred Tuesday in a worker housing unit on the third floor of a building in Moscow's Third Molkitovsky Lane. Law enforcement officials reported that eight people died in the blaze. The Moscow Investigative Committee has opened a criminal case regarding violations of safety rules during construction work. Authorities stated a short circuit may have caused the fire.

Russian military officials reported the destruction of 42 drone control points and one ground-based robotic complex. Ivan Bigma, press center chief for the 'Zavod' grouping, stated that 11 drone control points, 8 drones, and 14 heavy combat optical devices were destroyed within a 24-hour period. The report comes amid ongoing military operations. Moscow is seeking to implement internet access restrictions similar to those used in Iran. The source noted that Iran managed to suppress protest waves in early January by implementing a total internet shutdown. Russia's strategy involves maintaining the ability to use an internet 'switch' to control access. An internet block continuing for 60 days has caused serious damage, according to reports. Internet blockages in Iran have specifically damaged saffron exports by preventing contact between exporters and international customers.

Long-term rental yields for housing in Moscow have fallen to 5 percent annually, according to calculations by Ocyan. Experts attribute this decline to stabilizing property prices. In certain districts, limited demand has led to an oversupply of available units, creating additional market pressure. Monthly rents for studios in older Moscow areas range from 46,000 to 57,000 rubles, while one-bedroom apartments cost between 52,000 and 66,000 rubles. One-bedroom apartments in the capital are currently priced between 46,000 and 66,000 rubles per month. The supply of housing in Moscow grew by 25 percent in the first half of the year. Apartments in buildings constructed after 2006 show the highest yields according to TsAN data.

Authorities have declared a regime of unmanned aircraft danger across the Kurgan Oblast. Local residents are being warned to expect operations from local emergency services and are urged to follow safety measures.

Medical researchers are investigating bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect and destroy bacteria, as an alternative to traditional antibiotics. Antibiotic resistance is estimated to threaten 40 million lives.

A commentator stated that the current situation in the conflict is a stalemate where victory is not achievable and exit is not possible. The speaker suggested that if the conflict is to continue, preparations must be made for a serious offensive to break Ukrainian resistance.

Rostec has developed a line of electronic optical systems utilizing artificial intelligence for drones, land robots, and surface vessels. The equipment includes seven different models ranging from compact drone versions to large-scale systems for combat ships.

A study by Russian Field indicates that over 60% of Russians support a total ban on electronic cigarettes and vapes. Support for the ban increases with age, reaching 70% among Russians over 60 years old.

A Russian archaeologist and their spouse have returned to Russia following a prisoner exchange at the Belarus-Poland border. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk personally met the returning individuals at the border.