Russia Considers Controversial 'Scoundrel Law' to Seize Assets of Dissidents

The draft bill, likened to Stalin-era 'witch hunts', could affect thousands of Russians who have spoken out against Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.

Russia's parliament is considering a draft bill that would allow the state to seize the property of individuals convicted of defaming the armed forces or undermining state security.
The proposed legislation has been likened to the 'witch hunts' of the 1930s under Soviet dictator Josef Stalin, and could affect thousands of Russians who have spoken out against Moscow's invasion of Ukraine.
The bill could also target Russians who have left the country but continue to earn revenue from properties in Russia.
The draft bill, dubbed 'the scoundrel law', is being championed by Vyacheslav Volodin, the speaker of the State Duma and a close ally of President Vladimir Putin.
Legal experts warn that the law could be used as a tool to pressure those who disagree with the policy of the Russian authorities.