Stories from Russia

Authorities in Ufa are investigating several officials for suspected abuse of power and receiving large-scale bribes. Further details regarding the specific scale of the bribery are still being investigated. Ufa Mayor Ratmir Mavliev has been detained for questioning. Mavliev has held his position since March 2022 and previously led the administration in Nevyansk. The Investigative Committee of Russia (SKR) is investigating an administration head in Ufa for allegedly soliciting a bribe in 2025. The scheme involved the illegal transfer of a land plot exceeding 1,300 square meters located on a sanatorium property. The land acquisition was allegedly funded by the developer and valued at over 13 million rubles. Authorities have conducted interrogations, searches, and seizures, and are deciding on restrictive measures for the suspects.

Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin stated the Cabinet is working on a mechanism to protect the rights of minority shareholders during the state seizure of private assets. Dmitry Berechevsky, Director of the Economic Cooperation Department at the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that Russia is developing targeted economic measures in response to the European Union's 20th sanctions package. A commission for reducing barriers in foreign trade is handling the development of these measures. Berechevsky said that the Ministry and the government aim to ensure that any retaliatory measures do not harm Russia's own economy. The 20th package of anti-Russian sanctions has introduced new restrictions aimed at specific sectors. Analysts warn that Russian micro-businesses face potential mass exits and bankruptcy without direct measures to restore internal demand.

Vladimir Putin stated that the West is losing its leadership position in the world to a multipolar global order. Russian President Vladimir Putin stated in a video address to the Open Dialogue International Forum that Western nations are losing their leadership position. He claimed this leadership is being replaced by emerging growth centers in the Global South. The address focused on the shifting dynamics of global power. The analyst noted that recent internet blocks and arrests may be linked to this trend. This perspective is being shared even among some Kremlin-aligned experts, according to the report.

Russian President Vladimir Putin praised the Iranian people for defending their country against U.S. The support is directed toward Iran's position regarding the conflict involving the U.S. and Israel. Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed strong support for Iran during talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in St. The discussion comes amid ongoing tensions involving the U.S. The comments were made following the meeting between the two officials. The meeting represents the first high-level direct contact between the parties following recent regional escalations. Putin stated he received a message from Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei last week. Putin indicated Russia aims to achieve regional peace as quickly as possible. Analysts noted concerns that Russia could indirectly influence combat operations without deploying troops.

Maxim Reshetnikov, head of the Ministry for Economic Development, stated that attracting labor migrants to Russia in limited volumes is necessary for economic growth. These developments follow recent reports of economic struggles despite high oil revenues. The officials said the need for workers who are adapted and proficient in the Russian language. This timeline could allow the legislation to be implemented within this year. State Duma Chairman Vyacheslav Volodin announced that a new migration bill will be reviewed on a priority basis once submitted to the Duma. Volodin stated these measures aim to improve order within the migration sector. He cited Ministry of Internal Affairs data showing migrant-related crimes decreased by nearly 40 percent during the first quarter of 2026. The announcement follows the 12th increase in migration-related regulations last year.

Scientists at Sechenov University are developing a portable artificial pancreas for patients with type 1 diabetes. The device includes a continuous glucose monitoring sensor, an insulin pump, and a computer to automatically control blood glucose levels and adjust insulin doses. The development aims to provide automated management for diabetic patients. Researchers at Sechenov University have patented a hybrid aluminum-based alloy containing titanium powder. The composite is three times lighter than structural steel and remains stable at temperatures exceeding 300 degrees Celsius. The material is described as strong, lightweight, and heat-resistant.

The Glaskovsky Zoo, under the Moscow Department of Culture, reported new births in its animal collection. A female lemur named Alaotra has given birth to twins at the Moscow Zoo. This event marks a repeat occurrence for the pair, who also produced twins the previous year. In the wild, lemurs typically produce only one offspring at a time. Lemurs are native to Madagascar and contribute significantly to the country's economy through tourism. The Moscow Zoo is participating in a conservation and breeding program for a rare species of lemur listed in the international Red Book. The program focuses on the preservation of these endangered feliformia-related animals. The source noted the importance of these conservation efforts for species recovery. These feline-like animals are listed in the international Red Data Book.

An avalanche involving 22,000 to 45,000 cubic meters of snow struck nine mining company employees clearing a road at a mine. One death has been confirmed, while three employees managed to escape the debris on their own. Six others remain trapped under the snow mass, according to preliminary data. Nine employees of a mining company were buried by a large mass of snow while clearing a road at a mine in Buryatia. Rescuers recovered the body of one person from under a snow avalanche at a mine in Buryatia. Emergency services and canine units are continuing to search the area for other potential victims.

A large fire broke out in a building under construction in the airport district of Moscow. The fire has been assigned the fifth and maximum complexity rank. More than 120 personnel and 30 units of equipment are working to manage the blaze. Rescuers are currently attempting to save people from the second floor of the burning building. Over 120 responders and 30 vehicles are on site to rescue 31 people from the second floor.

Transneft is expanding the East Siberia-Pacific Ocean oil pipeline to increase oil export volumes through the port of Kozmino in the Russian Far East. Vice President Sergey Andronov announced the expansion project. Completion of the works is planned for 2029. The expansion aims to boost export capacity via the Kozmino port.