Russia: Authorities ban Dec. 24 rally in Moscow

Event

Authorities have banned a "Free Elections Day" rally planned for Sunday, December 24, in Moscow's Lermontov Park, organized by opposition politician Ilya Yashin. Yashin reportedly filed an appeal in court on Thursday, December 21, and said preparations for the event will continue. In addition to the event in Moscow, supporters of opposition leader Alexei Navalny are expected to hold rallies in at least 20 cities nationwide on Sunday.

An increased security presence is expected for all events; violent clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out.

Context

Yashin is a politician representing Moscow's Krasnoselsky district. Navalny is a well-known anti-corruption activist, and announced last year that he would run for president in 2018. However, Russia's electoral commission barred him from officially running due to previous arrests. Despite this, Navalny has continued to campaign in recent weeks, holding rallies across the country that have drawn thousands of people.

Advice

Individuals present in Russia are advised to avoid all demonstrations as violence can break out with little to no warning. Travelers should be aware that large public gatherings in Europe have been targeted by terrorist attacks in recent years; remain vigilant and report suspicious activity to the relevant authorities.