Russia: Protests in Moscow June 7 following arrest of journalist

Event

Dozens of people attended a protest in Moscow on Friday, June 7, following the arrest of prominent investigative journalist Ivan Golunov. Police arrested around 15 people outside the Ministry of Interior Affairs building in Moscow, though all those detained were later released. Further protests are possible in the coming days in Moscow and other cities, including St. Petersburg.

Context

Ivan Golunov was arrested on Thursday, June 6, on possession of drugs with intent to sell. Goluvov claims the drugs were planted and accuses police of mistreating him. Golunov is a prominent journalist investigating state corruption and illicit business practices.

Advice

Individuals in Moscow, and Russia more generally, are advised to avoid all public demonstrations due to the risk of arrest, refrain from discussing political subjects in public or on social media, adhere to instructions issued by local authorities, and anticipate localized disruption near any protest sites.