Moscow

Russia's Supreme Court has effectively criminalized the activities of the Nobel Peace Prize-winning human rights group Memorial, ruling to designate it as extremist following a closed-door hearing. The decision allows authorities to prosecute participants and supporters with long prison terms.

Major internet disruptions have hit Moscow and other Russian cities, with authorities implementing a new law enabling the FSB to shut down connections, justified as security measures against Ukrainian drones but sparking widespread public anger and economic losses.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has significantly reduced his public appearances in 2026, with a coughing fit in a mistakenly posted video fueling health speculation. This occurs amid domestic discontent and Russia's pursuit of maximalist war aims in Ukraine.

Russia has ordered a diplomat at the British Embassy in Moscow to leave within two weeks, accusing him of 'subversive intelligence activities'. The FSB spy agency said it revoked his accreditation, escalating diplomatic tensions.

Volvo's flagship models are being sold openly in Moscow despite international sanctions that were supposed to make such sales impossible, according to a Swedish media investigation.

Conflicting reports have emerged about whether guitar icon Yngwie Malmsteen has a sold-out concert scheduled in Moscow on March 14. While a Swedish newspaper reported the event, Malmsteen's management has denied any upcoming shows in Russia.

Eleven more men have been sentenced to life imprisonment in Russia for involvement in the bloody terrorist attack on the Crocus City Hall concert venue in Moscow on March 22, 2024. The attack claimed 150 lives and was the bloodiest terrorist incident in Russia in nearly 20 years.

Swedish singer Magnus Bäcklund has performed in Moscow multiple times since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, drawing public criticism. Aftonbladet reported he would perform at Vladimir Putin's residence, which Bäcklund denied.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó visited Moscow on March 4, 2026, securing energy import guarantees from Russia and the release of two Hungarian-Ukrainian prisoners of war. The visit highlights Hungary's continued reliance on Russian energy amid disputes with Ukraine and the EU.