Russian State Duma approves punishment for foreigners ‘aiding enemies’

The State Duma website reports this.

In Russia, responsibility has now been established for foreigners who, while in Russia, provide financial, advisory, and other assistance to "the enemy" in activities directly aimed against Russia’s security.

“Currently, there is no such responsibility for foreigners. They will also face responsibility for confidential cooperation with the enemy,” said Vasily Piskaryov, head of the Committee on Security and Anti-Corruption.

In addition, the amendments include not only joining the armed forces but also voluntary transfer to the service, work “in other bodies and organizations that conduct targeted activities against the security of the Russian Federation” as treason in the form of defection to the enemy.

"It is important to understand that in a situation where our soldiers and officers, risking their lives, are fighting for Russia's sovereignty, there are no 'neutral' or 'peaceful' organizations among our enemies. We cannot allow any work for the enemy to be carried out on our territory. Therefore, it must be appropriately punished, including with life imprisonment," emphasized Piskaryov.

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