Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Russian protesters may face huge fines

Ap
Wednesday 23 May 2012 21:13 BST
Comments

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Russia's President, Vladimir Putin, signalled his support yesterday for a controversial bill that would increase fines 200-fold for those taking part in unsanctioned protests.

The bill received preliminary approval by the Kremlin-controlled lower house on Tuesday.

Opposition lawmakers have warned that the bill will only fuel broad outrage and destabilise Russia by depriving the public of a legal way to voice grievances.

Mr Putin defended the bill yesterday, describing it as "strengthening democracy". "We must shield our people from radical actions," he said in remarks from a meeting with United Russia. "The society and the government have a right to protect themselves from this."

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in