Russians to be deprived of property for criticizing war - UK intelligence
Property of Russian residents will be taken away for criticizing the war (Getty Images)
On January 22, the State Duma of the Russian Federation discussed a bill regarding the seizure of financial assets, including property, belonging to Russian citizens openly critical of the Russian military and the "special military operation," according to the Ministry of Defense of the United Kingdom.
According to the summary, in recent months, several Russian writers and musicians have been convicted for criticizing the war.
British intelligence reminds that in 2022, Putin signed changes to the 2012 law on foreign agents, widely used for repression against regime opponents. As of November 3, 2023, the total list of foreign agents comprised 707 individuals.
According to British intelligence, foreign agents include independent Russian news agencies and human rights organizations, many of which have been forced to operate outside of Russia.
The Ministry of Defense of Britaint reports that it is highly likely that this law is aimed at restraining and suppressing the anti-war opposition. The recent bill, combined with measures against foreign agents, is likely aimed at completely restricting criticism of the war.
Support for the war against Ukraine among Russian citizens
According to the independent Levada Center, support among Russians for the war against Ukraine has remained consistently high since February 2022.
In November 2023, the majority of respondents (74%) supported the war, while 18% did not.
According to a Levada Center survey conducted in August 2023, Russian citizens are mostly unwilling to compromise. Only 20% of respondents believe that certain actions should be taken by Ukraine for the war to end and a peace agreement to be signed (and only 5% are certainly willing to make concessions).
