Dozens of Russians gathered in the Siberian city of Novosibirsk on November 19 to protest against a local government initiative that would ban protests in most city locations. Novosibirsk Governor Andrei Travnikov, who heads the regional pro-Kremlin United Russia party, claimed the initiative is designed to protect the rights and freedoms of residents. Opponents say Travnikov, who serves at the behest of Russian President Vladimir Putin, wants to limit protests ahead of the 2024 Russian presidential election to make himself look good in the eyes of the Kremlin. Opponents say they expect the United Russia-controlled Novosibirsk parliament to approve the ban. To read the original story by RFE/RL's Siberia.Realities, click here.
Dozens Gather In Siberian City To Speak Out Against Legislation Curtailing Protests
A protest in Novosibirsk (file photo)