Drone attacks, once unthinkable, are now a daily reality in Russia as Kyiv retaliates for Moscow's bombings. Residents are urged to "hold it together" as attacks can happen "anywhere and to anyone."
The Baku Court of Serious Crimes has sentenced eight Russian citizens to prison terms ranging from three to four years for drug trafficking. They were detained last June during an operation targeting drug transit from Iran and cyber fraud.
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that nearly two million Russians visited Thailand in 2025, with approximately 850,000 visiting from the start of the current year. The figures were shared during a meeting with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on the sidelines of the Russia-ASEAN summit.
Inflation expectations among Russians fell to 12.4% in June, the lowest since July 2024, according to an inFOM poll for the Bank of Russia. Observed inflation also decreased, with expectations among households with and without savings showing a downward trend.
In his new book, "Communion," US Vice President JD Vance notes the high support for Vladimir Putin among Russians, citing independent polls and a conversation with a "Russian dissident" at the Munich Security Conference. Vance criticizes the conference for preferring "comfortable lies" over "uncomfortable truths."
An investigation links a young Russian diplomat, Evgeny Lyukshin, to a sabotage campaign involving arson attacks on UK politicians and vandalism of mosques. Lyukshin allegedly used social media to recruit individuals, including a Ukrainian builder, offering money and Russian citizenship for acts of provocation and division.
俄羅斯人為規避網路監控與限制，被迫採取雙手機、VPN等複雜科技解方。此舉影響銀行、交通、電商業務，並在國會大選前夕引發民眾不滿。國家支持的MAX應用程式引發追蹤疑慮，而VPN下載量激增，顯示民眾對網路自由的渴望。
Russians are using complex technical solutions like VPNs and dual-phone setups to circumvent Kremlin-imposed internet restrictions on foreign apps and websites. These curbs, aimed at promoting 'digital sovereignty,' have disrupted services and caused frustration, potentially impacting Putin's approval ratings ahead of elections.
Russians attending a Kanye West concert in Tbilisi, Georgia, complained about poor sound quality and issues with tickets purchased from third-party services. Some watched the show through a doorway at the "Dynamo Arena" checkpoint. The concert reportedly drew 70,000 attendees and earned West approximately 500 million rubles.
The Russian Ambassador in Bern, commenting to TASS, highlighted significant difficulties faced by Russian citizens residing abroad, particularly concerning postal services and financial transfers. He noted that parcels often disappear en route from Europe, causing distress to the community.
Milorad Dodik, leader of Bosnia and Herzegovina's Republika Srpska entity, stated that his party will block any attempts to introduce a visa regime for Russian citizens. He claims Europe is pressuring Bosnia and Herzegovina to impose visas not only on Russians but also on Chinese citizens, which he opposes, emphasizing the importance of maintaining good relations with both countries.
A survey by "Sravni.ru" found that 43% of adult Russians work primarily to achieve personal goals requiring a stable income. Supporting loved ones was cited by 35%, while 26% seek a stable job for a peaceful life, and 25% view work as a simple necessity.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a new law allowing the arrest of property, bank deposits, and accounts of citizens residing abroad who commit crimes against Russia's interests, including discrediting the armed forces or inciting hatred.
Russia expects a 60% increase in mutual tourist flow with China in 2026, reaching 4-4.5 million trips, driven by increased flights and competitive pricing.
Russia's labor market boasts a record 61.5% workforce participation and 2.2% unemployment, yet faces structural challenges. Deputy PM Golikova emphasizes AI's potential to boost productivity by 21% by 2032, requiring upskilling, particularly in higher education.
The Russian Ambassador to Mauritius, Irada Zeynalova, stated that Russian tourists are welcomed on the island and locals are anticipating the resumption of direct flights. She noted that Mauritius is becoming a popular destination for Russians due to its affordability compared to the Maldives and Seychelles, and that locals appreciate the spending of Russian tourists.
Sweden's migration minister called for stricter EU tourist visa rules for Russians, deeming it "insane" for them to holiday in Europe while Ukrainians die in the war. A letter from 11 nations urged the EU to harmonize restrictions, citing a rise in visas issued.
A survey by "Logika Moloka" and VTsIOM reveals that while over half of Russians aim to eat healthily, only 17% consistently follow dietary rules. Economic factors, ingrained habits, and information overload are key barriers.
Nearly 30 million Russians have utilized the self-exclusion tool to prevent taking out loans, and over 1.8 million have opted for self-exclusion on SIM card registrations. Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Grigorenko announced these figures at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, highlighting the popularity of these self-protection measures against online criminals. Plans are also underway to introduce self-exclusion on calls from abroad.
Nine EU nations and two non-EU countries, including Iceland and Norway, have requested the EU to tighten visa policies for Russian citizens, citing current circumstances and calling to prevent Russians from vacationing on European beaches. This move highlights potential divisions within the EU, as popular tourist destinations like Spain and Greece did not sign the letter.
Nato Secretary-General Mark Rutte warned young Russians they face a high chance of death or injury if they join the war in Ukraine, citing "staggering" Russian losses. Meanwhile, EU members agreed to open accession talks with Ukraine and Moldova.
A survey by T-Zh found that 73% of Russians help their children with housing. 21% have already bought property, while 52% plan to assist with purchases or inheritance, driven by high housing costs.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that maintaining diplomatic relations and dialogue with Russia is essential, citing Russia's significant nuclear arsenal and the ongoing war in Ukraine, which he hopes will end through negotiation.
Economist Yulia Kuznetsova states that buying apartments for rental income is no longer a profitable investment for Russians due to taxes, maintenance, and other costs. Bank deposits and bonds now offer better returns.
