29 Sep 2019 | 05:42 PM UTC
Russia: Thousands demand release of protesters in Moscow September 29 /update 1
Thousands participate in demonstration in Moscow to demand release of protesters from imprisonment September 29; heightened security measures and transportation disruptions to be expected over the coming hours
Event
Some 20,000 people demonstrated in Moscow on Sunday, September 29, demanding that protesters detained in summer opposition protests be released by Russian authorities. Opposition voices claim the arrests, made during a protest movement which began in July, mark a move by the Kremlin to silence political dissent. No arrests were immediately reported in Sunday's protest, earlier authorized by the Moscow mayor's office.
A heightened security presence and transportation disruptions are to be expected in the capital over the coming hours. Similar demonstrations are possible in Moscow over the near term.
Advice
Individuals in Moscow are advised to monitor developments to the situation, prepare for residual transportation disruptions, avoid all protests and demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.
