Stories from Russia

Russian FSB officials are reportedly interpreting existing laws to conduct phone inspections of staff at Tajik embassies in Russia. The practice involves searching the devices of individuals who may refuse to provide their technology for inspection. This process allows officials to physically handle, rotate, and copy data from the devices. Russian authorities are conducting filtration processes on Tajikistani citizens entering the Russian Federation, which includes demanding access to mobile phones and conducting interrogations lasting several hours or even days. Tajikistani representatives have requested clarification regarding these practices.

A new 107-meter long submarine, measuring 11 meters in width, has been tested with a crew of 80 people. The vessel features a world-first capability to launch 10 cruise missiles from underwater. The test involved high acceleration during the launch phase.

The 20 largest banking groups in Russia have reduced their workforce by 4%. Train schedules on the Velikaya and Savelskoye directions of the Moscow Railway have been disrupted due to bad weather. Some trains are currently running up to two and a half hours behind schedule. Russian banks are implementing staff reductions driven by the adoption of automation and AI solutions. Staffing levels across 20 of Russia's largest banking groups have decreased by 4%. The trend reflects a shift in operational structures within the major financial institutions. No new specific data provided in this feed to update the existing story. Staff reductions were recorded in 14 banks, with some institutions cutting headcount by up to 40%. Despite these cuts, average monthly industry salaries rose to 180,000 rubles, reaching 300,000 rubles at certain banks. These figures were reported by Kommersant.

A new production facility for modern turbocharged engines has commenced operations in Kaluga, Russia. Serial assembly of various engine generations and series is currently underway. The facility aims to produce multiple models of the latest generation. This development marks a new manufacturing milestone for the region's automotive sector. The facility will supply 1.5, 1.6, and 2.0 liter engines for all vehicle models produced by partner joint ventures in Russia. This development aims to support the domestic automotive cluster and industrial growth. The plant underwent large-scale modernization to increase automation and meet current quality and efficiency standards. Negotiations are reportedly underway with a large Chinese company that operates in 24 countries to establish an additional automotive plant in the region.

Authorities in Moscow have suspended the rental of electric scooters following an unexpected snowfall in April. The city has already received a month's worth of precipitation. Forecasters warn of wet snow, icy conditions, and gusty winds up to 23 meters per second in Moscow until the end of the day. Several flights at Vnukovo Airport were delayed on Monday morning. Pobeda Airlines is adjusting its flight schedule and advises passengers to check flight status. Moscow recorded four weather-related records during April, according to Hydrometcenter specialist Lyudmila Parshina. The other three records involve exceptionally low atmospheric pressure. The records were reported by the Hydrometcenter specialist. Northern air masses have brought rain and lower temperatures to Moscow.

The mother reports that she was allegedly blackmailed into traveling to Chechnya. The father is currently seeking to have the daughter, Diana, returned to his care.

Moscow has launched a selection process for students and schoolchildren to participate in a large-scale Arctic expedition. Winners will travel to the Taymyr Peninsula and the Chersky Peninsula to study ecosystem conditions. The mission includes continuing restoration work in the region. Russian Ministry of Emergency Situations engineering equipment is being utilized for these efforts. The selection process has begun at the Palace of Creativity for Children and Youth. Candidates participated in an Arctic dictation and ski races as part of the initial phase. The program aims to engage youth in Arctic exploration and research.

Strong winds have damaged roofs and disrupted electricity supply across 117 settlements in the Novosibirsk region. Approximately 6,000 residents are currently without power following the weather event. Emergency crews from regional electric networks and gas services are conducting repairs, primarily in the Kupinsky district. The regional government press service confirmed the ongoing restoration efforts.

Zenit Saint Petersburg defeated Akhmat in a Russian Premier League match. The score reached 2-0 by the 11th minute following a goal by Douglas Santos. Zenit secured the three points, reducing the gap with Krasnodar to one point. Three rounds remain in the RPL championship season. John Cordoba scored in the 11th minute to make the score 2-0.

A yacht owned by former CPRF deputy Annenko has sunk in Algarade.