Sertaç Aktan is a journalist based in Brussel, Belgium.

In Russia, this time an ally of Putin died after falling from the third floor for an unknown reason

28 Dec 2023  |  tr.euronews.com  |  Turkish  |  Politics

Vladimir Egorov, a member of the United Russia party and an ally of President Vladimir Putin, was found dead after falling from the third floor of a building in Tobolsk. The circumstances of his fall remain unclear, and no official statement has been made by the Kremlin. The incident is under investigation, with reports from a Telegram channel linked to the Russian secret service and confirmation from the Izvestia newspaper.

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United Russia Party Kremlin Russian Secret Service

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An award-winning journalist with a passion for climate and environmental issues. Based in Egypt, I have been writing for local news outlets in Egypt and Saudi Arabia since 2013, beside working for Microsoft (MSN Arabia) and Opera news application. 

 With 9 years of experience in journalism, I am ...

'A Very Good Man': Vladimir Putin's Alleged Girlfriend Talks About Their Relationship in Uncovered Interview

01 Oct 2023  |  knewz.com  |  English  |  Russian Politics

The article revisits an old interview with Alina Kabaeva, a former Russian gymnast and alleged girlfriend of Vladimir Putin, which has resurfaced online. In the 2008 interview, Kabaeva discusses her ideal man, sparking renewed speculation about her relationship with Putin. Despite no official confirmation, rumors persist. The article also touches on Kabaeva's political career and her role in The National Media Group, a pro-Kremlin media company. The context of the Ukraine invasion and subsequent sanctions on Putin's associates, including Kabaeva, is also highlighted.

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United Russia Party The National Media Group

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Journalist and writer based in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Appeared in The Diplomat, Al Jazeera, The Daily Star, Dhaka Tribune.

Researcher, Tech Policy Fellow, Tech Global Institute.

Topics covered: Politics, Technology, Policy, History, Culture.

The Death of Democracy in Bangladesh

07 Jan 2024  |  thediplomat.com  |  English  |  Political Repression

The 12th parliamentary election in Bangladesh saw the ruling Awami League, led by Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, secure a fourth consecutive win amid allegations of vote rigging, violence, and political repression. The main opposition party, Bangladesh Nationalist Party, boycotted the election, leading to a largely uncontested race. The election was marked by low voter turnout and widespread reports of irregularities. International observers condemned the election, while Russia and China expressed satisfaction. The article highlights the erosion of democratic practices in Bangladesh and the consolidation of power by the Awami League.

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Russia United Kingdom United States United Nations Bangladesh Nationalist Party Awami League China

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I am an Iranian-American Journalist and Iran Analyst.
 When I was 14 I was lucky enough to get a work experience placement at newspaper in Iran. That was begining, From 1997 through today and I have worked with such as great Media inside and outside of Iran. 
I worked as a beat reporter for many ...

Iranian Activist Tavakoli Starts Five

02 Oct 2023  |  www.rferl.org  |  English  |  Death Penalty

Four Iranian women, including aid worker Pakhshan Azizi and labor activist Sharifeh Mohammadi, have been charged with armed rebellion against the state, a crime punishable by death. Human rights groups condemn these charges as baseless and politically motivated. The rise in death sentences for women follows the 2022 antiestablishment protests sparked by Mahsa Amini's death. The article also discusses the broader context of Iran's political repression, including the crackdown on Kurdish minorities and the use of the death penalty to instill fear. Additionally, it touches on Iran's geopolitical maneuvers, including its stance on the Iran nuclear deal and its involvement in regional conflicts.

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Carnegie Russia Eurasia Center United States Kurdistan Workers Party Free Life Party of Kurdistan Center for Human Rights in Iran Islamic State Iran Human Rights group U.S. State Department Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action Israel Defense Forces Hizballah Hamas European Union Iranian Foreign Ministry International North–South Transport Corridor Shanghai Cooperation Organization BRICS World Trade Organization Echo of the Caucasus University of Economics and Human Sciences Digital Forensic Research Lab Microsoft Threat Analysis Center Open AI Mandiant Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps Trump campaign Google threat analysis group Iranian police Das Deutsche Sprachinstitut Teheran Goethe Institute Islamic Center Hamburg

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Valerie Hopkins is currently the South-East Europe Correspondent for the Financial Times, where she covers the region out of Budapest. She has more than ten years of experience working in South-Eastern Europe. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, The Guardian The Atlantic, The Washington ...

Inmate Revolts Highlight Failings and Miseries of Russian Prisons

30 Aug 2024  |  www.nytimes.com  |  English  |  Human Rights

A recent mutiny in a Russian prison, instigated by inmates claiming allegiance to the Islamic State, resulted in 13 deaths and has raised critical questions about the state of Russian prisons. The incident highlights severe issues such as poor conditions, lack of personnel, and corruption within the penal system. Experts suggest that the war in Ukraine has exacerbated these problems, leading to increased unrest. The article also discusses the broader implications of these uprisings for President Vladimir V. Putin and the Russian security services.

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United Russia party Islamic State FSIN Russian military

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I am a freelance journalist, based in Turkey. I mainly cover Turkey's national news, the Syrian war-related issues, the refugee crisis, and Turkey's foreign policy towards Middle East, Africa and Central Asia. I've been contributing to international media outlets as a reporter. Besides, I've been ...

Syria’s civilians are increasingly forgotten as humanitarian aid dries out

01 Oct 2023  |  Middle East Eye  |  English  |  International Aid

Millions of Syrian civilians face dwindling international aid as the World Food Programme ends its mandate for the country in 2024. The Syrian government has extended approval for cross-border UN aid through Turkey, but financial aid has significantly dropped due to donor fatigue, the pandemic, and other global crises. The reduction in aid has exacerbated vulnerabilities, leading to increased drug trafficking and recruitment by armed groups. The economic situation in Syria and surrounding countries continues to worsen, with 90% of the population living below the poverty line and humanitarian needs expected to rise.

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Russia Democratic Union Party United Nations World Food Programme USAID State Department Syrian Government Syrian Democratic Forces Islamic State China European Donors Hayat Tahrir al-Sham

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Ksenia Ivanova is a documentary photographer, based in Berlin, Germany. Ksenia works with The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, GEO France, Der Spiegel, Le Monde etc. In the photography, her main interest is focused on social problems and trauma.

Website: ****

Discreetly, and at Peril, Russian Volunteers Help Ukrainian Refugees

25 Feb 2023  |  www.rsn.org  |  English  |  Russian Civil Society

Russian volunteers are discreetly aiding Ukrainian refugees in Russia, forming an unofficial network reminiscent of the Underground Railroad. These volunteers face significant risks from Russian security forces, who are suspicious of citizen initiatives. The volunteers provide essential services, such as transportation and supplies, to help refugees reach safety in Europe. Official volunteer groups, aligned with the Russian government, offer limited aid and promote Russian citizenship, complicating refugees' journeys. Some volunteers have faced persecution, leading them to flee Russia. Despite the dangers, these volunteers continue their efforts, driven by a sense of duty and hope for a better future.

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United Russia party Russian security forces Federal Security Service (FSB)

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Linas Jegelevicius is a journalist based in Klaipeda, Lithuania, also available for work in capital city Vilnius and in Kaunas, Lithuania's second-largest city. Having spent 10 years in the US, Linas is proficient in English and as the proof of this is his current position as editor-in-chief of The ...

Estonia’s far-right EKRE party should not be written off

03 Mar 2023  |  www.intellinews.com  |  English  |  Far-Right Movements

Estonia's far-right Conservative People's Party (EKRE) is gaining ground against the ruling liberal Reform Party ahead of the general election. EKRE, led by Martin Helme, could form a coalition with the Centre Party and Isamaa, potentially shifting Estonia's stance on Ukraine and aligning more with Hungary's policies. Despite EKRE's controversial positions, including Euroscepticism and anti-immigration rhetoric, its popularity remains high due to economic concerns and effective local outreach. Analysts suggest that while the Reform Party still has a strong chance of forming the next government, EKRE's influence cannot be dismissed.

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Social Democrat Party United Russia Party Fidesz Party Centre Party Reform Party EKRE Isamaa Johan Skytte Institute of Political Studies European Parliament National Rally AFD Lega Tallinn University’s School of Governance, Law and Society Estonia 200

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Michal Kranz is a journalist based in New York City.

How 46 Toddlers Were Disappeared by Putin in One Fell Swoop

10 Oct 2023  |  www.thedailybeast.com  |  English  |  Child Deportation

In Kherson, Ukraine, 46 toddlers were forcibly transferred by Russian authorities from the Kherson Regional Children’s Home to Simferopol in occupied Crimea, with claims of ensuring their safety. The deportation, part of a broader effort involving over 13,000 children, is described by Ukrainian officials and human rights experts as fitting the definition of genocide. The article details the emotional testimonies of former staff members, the alleged reorganization of the home by pro-Russian employees, and the ongoing investigations by Ukrainian authorities into these actions. The narrative underscores the systematic nature of Russian atrocities in Ukraine and the cultural Russification of deported children.

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United Russia party Russian authorities Kherson Regional Children’s Home SBU Prosecutor General of Ukraine

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Stephanie Liechtenstein is a diplomatic correspondent and freelance journalist based in Vienna, Austria. Her articles and research are focused on multilateral diplomacy and negotiations, international organisations, foreign and security policy, the EU, the UN in Vienna as well as the International ...

With or without the far right in power, Austria's links with Russia cause concern among allies

23 Oct 2024  |  www.pressdemocrat.com  |  English  |  European Politics

Austria's longstanding ties with Russia, particularly through the far-right Freedom Party, are causing concern among Western allies regarding intelligence-sharing. The Freedom Party's past actions, including a controversial raid on Austria's domestic intelligence agency, have led to mistrust. While the center-right People’s Party currently leads coalition talks, the potential inclusion of the Freedom Party in government raises fears of compromised intelligence. Austria's neutrality and historical connections with Russia contribute to its role as a hub for espionage, with calls for stricter measures against Russian diplomats. Despite these challenges, Austria's foreign ministry maintains its stance on international law and diplomatic actions.

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United Russia Party Green Party Neos party People’s Party Freedom Party Austrian Center for Intelligence, Propaganda and Security Studies Austrian Foreign Ministry DSN

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British journalist, editor, and researcher. Work published in the Guardian, POLITICO Europe, New Statesman, Vice, The Moscow Times, and New Eastern Europe. 

Now primarily in London/Baltics but open to Russia-based commissions with the appropriate arrangements.

Russian sausage tycoon is latest Putin critic to die from fall

01 Oct 2023  |  www.thetimes.com  |  English  |  Suspicious Deaths

Pavel Antonov, a Russian oligarch and critic of the war in Ukraine, was found dead in a hotel in India, marking the latest in a series of suspicious deaths among wealthy Russian tycoons and energy officials this year. Antonov, a member of the United Russia party and founder of the sausage company Vladimir Standard, had previously described Russia's actions in Ukraine as terrorism. His death follows that of his friend, Vladimir Bidenov, at the same hotel. Speculations arise about the Kremlin's involvement in these deaths, with some suggesting that criminal gangs might be exploiting the war to settle old scores.

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United Russia party Kremlin

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Saskia ODonoghue is a text and video journalist based in London and East Sussex, United Kingdom.

Her specialisms are human interest stories, culture, the arts, fashion and luxury and entertainment.

Russian presidential hopeful banned from running in election

04 Oct 2023  |  malaysia.news.yahoo.com  |  English  |  Ukraine Conflict

Yekaterina Duntsova, a Russian politician advocating for peace in Ukraine, has been barred from running in the upcoming presidential election after her appeal was rejected by Russia's Supreme Court. Despite this setback, Duntsova plans to form her own political party. The article also discusses other candidates, including Nikolai Kharitonov from the Russian Communist Party and Boris Nadezhdin from the Civic Initiative party, who are attempting to challenge Vladimir Putin's almost certain reelection. The tight control and suppression of opposition under Putin's regime are emphasized.

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United Russia Russian Communist Party Central Election Commission Supreme Court Yabloko Duma Civic Initiative People’s Front

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Ugo Poletti is a journalist based in Odessa, Ukraine.

Founder and Editor-in-Chief of “The Odessa Journal”, digital media platform in English about culture, history, social and business life in Odessa, biggest port and cultural capital of Black Sea region

ISW Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, Map and Update December 3, 2023

04 Dec 2023  |  Kyiv Post  |  English  |  International Relations

The Institute for the Study of War's latest assessment highlights Russian President Vladimir Putin's decree formalizing the current military strength, increased reliance on remote strikes by Russian forces due to Ukrainian air defense, and calls for international investigation into the killing of Ukrainian soldiers by Russian forces. The report also notes Russian missile and drone strikes, censorship of military personnel's relatives, and efforts to normalize the war through milbloggers. Additionally, it discusses the use of the Russian Orthodox Church for indoctrination and the strengthening of the United Russia party in occupied Ukraine ahead of the 2024 presidential elections.

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United Russia Party Russian Government Russian Orthodox Church Institute for the Study of War

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Julian Ryall is a journalist based in Tokyo, Japan.

Is North Korea Preparing for War in 2024?

16 Jan 2024  |  www.dw.com  |  German  |  International Relations

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has ruled out peaceful reunification with South Korea, calling for an expansion of the nuclear arsenal and missile tests. Experts warn that the situation on the Korean Peninsula is more dangerous than ever, with North Korea potentially abandoning its goal of normalizing relations with the US. While some analysts believe North Korea is preparing for war, others argue that the regime's actions are more about posturing and maintaining alliances with Russia and China. The article highlights the complexities and potential risks of misinterpretation leading to unintended conflict.

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Russia United States Communist Party of North Korea KCNA International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Stimson Center US Department of State Middlebury Institute of International Studies South Korea China

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Vadim Shtepa is the editor-in-chief of Region.Expert (****), the only independent media outlet on Russian regionalism and federalism. He graduated from the Faculty of Journalism of Moscow State University (1992) and Moscow School of Political Studies (2012). He is also an alumnus of the Research ...

Public Opinion in Russia Falls as Citizens Experience Reality of War

09 Sept 2023  |  Jamestown  |  English  |  War in Ukraine

Public support for Russia's war in Ukraine is declining as citizens prioritize regional issues over nationalistic propaganda. Despite the Kremlin's efforts to maintain support through propaganda and the use of war veterans in politics, many Russians are more concerned with local challenges. Research indicates a growing 'gray zone' of apathetic citizens whose views may shift as personal and regional issues take precedence. The war's impact on Russian society is evident, with many avoiding discussions about it and focusing on local affairs. The potential for future de-imperialization of Russia is suggested as citizens increasingly question the Kremlin's actions and the war's purpose.

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United Russia Party Golos Kremlin Public Sociology Laboratory Levada Center ExtremeScan

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Vicky Stark is a journalist based in Cape Town, South Africa. She currently works as a freelance multimedia reporter for Voice of America TV, radio and online. She is also the producer of the award-winning Weekend Breakfast Show on Cape Talk radio. Prior to this, she worked behind the scenes in ...

South African Holocaust Center Says Russia is on 'Road to Genocide’ in Ukraine

14 Apr 2023  |  www.voanews.com  |  English  |  International Relations

The South African Holocaust Center, represented by Director Richard Freedman, has condemned Russia's actions in Ukraine, suggesting they exhibit genocidal intent. Professor Olexiy Haran, part of a Ukrainian delegation, appealed to South Africa to reconsider its neutral stance, highlighting the severe impact of the conflict and drawing parallels to historical events. Despite South Africa's abstention from UN resolutions condemning Russia, the government maintains its position of encouraging peaceful dialogue. The International Criminal Court has issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin, further complicating international relations.

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United Russia party United Nations Holocaust Center African National Congress Russian state-run news agency International Criminal Court BRICS

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Jerome is The Times Africa Correspondent, based in Nairobi. Before that he lived in Afghanistan and worked for various newspapers and broadcasters.

TV LICENCE TO KILL Russian TV channel makes a huge gaffe by broadcasting appeal to spy for Britain

10 Dec 2023  |  The Irish Sun  |  English  |  International Relations

A major blunder occurred on Russian state television when Channel 1 broadcast an appeal from MI6's chief, Richard Moore, inviting Russians to become spies for Britain. The segment aired during a show hosted by Maria Butina, a former Russian spy and current MP for Vladimir Putin's United Russia party. Butina's program, which profiles individuals considered enemies of Russia, unexpectedly included a translated clip of Moore's speech, which had previously received little attention from Russian media. This incident has been highlighted as a significant error, as it potentially exposed millions of viewers, including those in political circles, to a recruitment message from a foreign intelligence service. Butina, who was deported from the US in 2019 for acting as a foreign agent, has since become a prominent television personality in Russia.

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United Russia party MI6

Narissa Subramoney is a journalist based in Johannesburg, South Africa.

WATCH: ‘Argentina’s decision to snub BRICS is their loss’, says United Russia party

05 Dec 2023  |  BGTN | BRICS Global Television Network  |  English  |  BRICS

Andrey Klimov of the United Russia party stated that Argentina's decision to decline an invitation to join BRICS is a loss for the country, not for the bloc. He emphasized that Argentina was never a BRICS member and that the previous administration had only expressed interest. Klimov highlighted that five other countries are eager to join BRICS and compared Argentina's decision to discarding a movie ticket. He also noted that President-elect Javier Melei's preference for using the dollar indicates Argentina's stance. Klimov reiterated that BRICS supports the freedom of nations to make their own choices.

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United Russia party BRICS

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Anastasia Tenisheva is a journalist based in Moscow, Russia.

Russia’s Ruling Party Downplays War in Sweeping Regional Election Push

06 Sept 2023  |  The Moscow Times  |  English  |  Political Strategy

Russia's ruling United Russia party is downplaying the war in Ukraine in its regional election campaign, focusing instead on socio-economic issues. The Kremlin is treating these elections as a rehearsal for the 2024 presidential elections, with President Vladimir Putin expected to seek a fifth term. Despite the lack of independent observers and real opposition, the government is cautious about the election outcomes. The change in campaign strategy follows internal criticism and the Wagner mercenary group's revolt. Experts believe this approach may appeal to voters who are weary of the ongoing conflict.

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Liberal Democratic Party Communist Party United Russia Kremlin International Crisis Group Golos

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Maxim Tucker reports for The Times on Ukraine. He has worked in some of the hottest spots in the conflict zone and various locations throughout the country. He has extensive contacts within the Ukrainian government, military and intelligence services, as well as among diplomats, political parties, ...

The Ukrainian partisans fighting Putin on his own territory

02 Aug 2024  |  www.thetimes.com  |  English  |  Resistance Movements

Ukrainian partisans, particularly the underground resistance group Atesh, are actively sabotaging Russian infrastructure and military operations in Crimea and other regions. Motivated by a mix of personal vendettas and financial incentives, these partisans have successfully disrupted railroads and called in airstrikes on high-value targets. Despite being hunted by the FSB and Russian intelligence, Atesh continues to operate through covert means, leveraging local and disgruntled soldiers' support. The Kremlin has labeled the group as terrorists, but Atesh maintains its focus on strategic sabotage without involving children.

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United Russia party Atesh FSB Ukrainian Defence Forces Russian intelligence HUR

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Frankie Vetch is a freelance reporter, writer and investigative journalist based in London. His work has focused on politics, culture and human rights. He was previously a staff reporter at Coda Story and has freelanced for the Times, CNN, the Telegraph, the Daily Beast, EuroNews, New Lines ...

An international anti-LGBTQ movement is making headway in Turkey, where the government is presenting homosexuality and transgenderism as an imposition of Western imperialism

18 Oct 2023  |  Coda Story  |  English  |  International Relations

The article discusses the rise of an international anti-LGBTQ movement in Turkey, where the government, led by President Erdogan, is scapegoating the LGBTQ community amidst economic downturns and public frustration. The Yesevi Alperenler Association, a nationalist Islamist organization, and its leader Kursat Mican are at the forefront of this movement, which has gained momentum with the support of conservative Turkish NGOs. The Istanbul Metropolitan Municipality organized an art exhibition titled 'Starting from the Middle,' which included LGBTQ themes and faced backlash, leading to a legal investigation. The article highlights the increasing influence of conservative figures on Turkish politics, Erdogan's shift towards more conservative rhetoric, and the potential for legislative changes against LGBTQ rights. The situation is compared to anti-LGBTQ movements in Russia and Hungary, with mentions of international connections among these groups. The article also touches on the personal experiences of LGBTQ individuals in Turkey, the cultural impact of restrictions, and the community's resilience in the face of adversity.

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United Russia party Vatan Party CHP (Republican People's Party) Anadolu Agency Global Project Against Hate and Extremism Turkiye Genclik Birligi Radio and Television Supreme Council