Lukashenko promises fresh elections in Belarus after new constitution is adopted via nationwide referendum

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, who has been defiant in defending last week’s controversial election victory, has suddenly relented, saying new elections could be held – but only after a new constitution is adopted. … Read More >Lukashenko promises fresh elections in Belarus after new constitution is adopted via nationwide referendum

Start them early: New Russian law means kids will be taught patriotism and respect for elders in schools

Russia’s parliament has approved a bill to boost ‘patriotism’ education in the school curriculum, designed to instill children with respect for the memory of those who fought to defend the country, its laws and traditions. … Read More >Start them early: New Russian law means kids will be taught patriotism and respect for elders in schools

Dozens detained in Moscow during unauthorized protest against recently approved constitutional amendments

Moscow police detained over a hundred demonstrators who held an unapproved rally on Wednesday evening. They were protesting against constitutional changes passed in a national vote earlier this month. … Read More >Dozens detained in Moscow during unauthorized protest against recently approved constitutional amendments

‘Not a vote, not a referendum, but a show’: Opposition cries foul as majority of Russians support Putin’s constitution overhaul

While the results show an overwhelming majority of Russians have backed a proposed broad package of amendments to the country’s constitution, many leading opposition figures have immediately cried foul. … Read More >‘Not a vote, not a referendum, but a show’: Opposition cries foul as majority of Russians support Putin’s constitution overhaul

Overwhelming support for Putin’s constitution changes a wake-up call for Westerners who claim Russian system is bound to collapse

The main takeaway from Russia’s ‘national vote’ on a series of amendments to the constitution is one a lot of people won’t want to hear: Most Russians want the country to plow its own furrow, regardless of what outsiders think. … Read More >Overwhelming support for Putin’s constitution changes a wake-up call for Westerners who claim Russian system is bound to collapse