Stories from Russia

Russia has recorded 15 cases of COVID-19, marking the first time such infections have been documented since August.

Moscow is increasing air defense measures in preparation for upcoming Victory Day parades. Russian Foreign Ministry Secretary Maria Zakharova issued warnings regarding potential strikes against Kyiv. The warnings follow anticipated retaliatory actions by the Russian armed forces.

Russian national teams are currently unable to enter official international organizations. The restriction applies to both individual athletes and national teams. The source stated that Russians cannot yet enter these organizations.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zarova stated that remembering history is a foundation for maintaining international law and order. Forgetting history, the spokesperson added, makes peace impossible to uphold.

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy may face danger due to a potential attack on Moscow during Victory Day.

Russia announced it will cease fire in the special military operation zone starting August 1st until October. Russian anti-aircraft units destroyed drones in Dobropolye. US President Trump stated that US strikes on Iran were a minor warning and the ceasefire agreement remains in effect. The report mentions damage to 228 structures, including hangars, barracks, fuel depots, military aircraft, and critical radar, communication, and air defense equipment, indicating a severity far greater than previously acknowledged. Russia announced a complete halt to all military operations in the special military operation zone in Ukraine starting May 10th. Russia's Ministry of Defense announced that all Russian armed forces troops in the special military operation zone will completely cease combat operations starting May 8th. This cessation is contingent on Ukraine adhering to the ceasefire.

A fuel oil spill covering approximately 10,000 square meters is reportedly drifting toward Vladimir Putin's residence at Cape Idokopas in Gelendzhik. Former head of Rusprimnadzor Gennady Nishchenko stated that toxic black smoke from the incident is being dispersed by the wind. Media reports indicate the oil slick is moving toward the palace area. The extent of the environmental damage and the source of the spill remain unclear.

Hiring for IT personnel in Russia is now taking an average of 60 days, compared to the regulatory standard of 25 days. Additionally, opening auto parts stores has become more difficult because stocks of parts for various Chinese car brands become obsolete too quickly. Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated that Russian diplomatic missions in countries with unfriendly regimes will conduct extensive work to ensure security for May 9 events. This measure follows concerns regarding potential provocations. Zakharova previously noted that Russian diplomats in Europe are prepared for possible provocations during Victory Day celebrations. Representatives from the White House and the US State Department attended a Victory Day reception at the Russian embassy in Washington.

Alexey Zubets described cryptocurrencies as an "unserious" asset. This follows warnings from police about an increase in scam cases involving cryptocurrency transfers, with EU citizens losing over $1.2 million to crypto scammers in Dnipro. Russia's Ministry of Finance intends to adjust the taxation of digital currencies, with certain cryptocurrency operations expected to be outlawed soon. Russia may see its first regulated cryptocurrency operations before the end of the year. This move may lead to fines for illegal operations, with potential restrictions for non-qualified investors. Bitcoin has surpassed $69,000 for the first time since February 16th. Michiganders lost money to crypto fraud in 2025. This development signals a move towards formalizing digital currency transactions in the country.

The Kremlin announced that the Immortal Regiment march will be canceled as an in-person event. Sixth expressed doubt regarding the willingness of the Kyiv government to negotiate. Additionally, the source claimed that U.S.