24 Sep 2021 | 10:27 PM UTC
Russia: Communist party plans political gathering in Pushkin Square, central Moscow, from 14:00 Sept. 25
Communist party plans to hold a political gathering in central Moscow, Russia, from 14:00 Sept. 25; arrests, isolated clashes possible.
Event
Opposition activists associated with the Communist Party of Russia (CPR) plan to hold a political gathering in central Moscow Sept. 25. Activists will gather at Pushkin Square (Pushinskaya Ploschad) from 14:00 to condemn the results of Russia's Sept. 17-19 federal election. Several CPR politicians have said that they believe the results of the election were manipulated.
Police have warned that the planned CPR gathering would violate COVID-19-related measures and will be dispersed immediately if it goes ahead. Additional security forces will almost certainly be deployed to prevent the protest. Increased security measures will likely prompt localized transport disruptions. Police will not hesitate to use force and make arrests if resisted; isolated clashes cannot be discounted. Security forces had reportedly detained several CPR activists Sept. 24.
Context
Avoid the protest as a routine security precaution and to mitigate associated disruptions. Heed instructions from security forces and leave the area at the first sign of a confrontation. Prepare for transport delays near the protest area Sept. 25.
