Russian State Duma Passes Bill to Confiscate Property from Critics of the Army
The legislation, seen as an attempt to silence opposition to Russia's military operation in Ukraine, was passed with 395 votes for and three against.
- Russian lawmakers have approved a bill that allows for the confiscation of property, money, and valuables from anyone convicted of spreading criticism of the Russian army.
- The bill was passed by the State Duma, the lower house of parliament, with 395 votes for and three against.
- The new legislation is seen as an attempt to deter and silence opposition to Russia's ongoing military operation in Ukraine.
- Since its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Russia has banned any criticism of its military operation and has detained thousands of Russians opposing the war.
- Under laws passed in March 2022, discrediting the armed forces or spreading false information about them are already punishable by long jail terms.