„I think you left the country, betrayed – get out. But that is my position. <…> You know, new lawmakers will come, let them change the laws,“ said E.Pamfilova. She also believes that law enforcement agencies have enough capabilities to identify the category of citizens who could be deprived of the right to decide Russia’s fate in the future.
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The election commission recommended that Russian ambassadors in “unfriendly” countries ask the authorities of these countries whether they can ensure election security. E.Pamfilova also stated that abroad there may be an activation of the “public that fled the country.” She explained that Russia supposedly has the most liberal laws regarding voting abroad.
The law on foreign agents in Russia has been in effect since 2012. In 2017, the “foreign agent” status was extended to foreign media outlets, and since 2020 it has been applied to individuals. “Foreign agents” must label their materials, submit reports, and comply with other restrictions. Administrative and criminal liability is provided for violations of these requirements.
Upcoming Duma elections
E.Pamfilova’s statement came in preparation for the State Duma elections. On August 17, the Russian Supreme Court rejected the “Yabloko” party’s appeal and upheld the decision to cancel its federal list registration. On August 18, the CEC removed “Yabloko” from the federal ballot.
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The grounds for removal were alleged violations of intellectual property and copyright laws in preparing campaign materials, as well as funds received by “Yabloko” from foreign sources. “Yabloko” called these accusations unfounded.
The party leader Nikolai Rybakov stated that campaign financing was conducted according to the law, and operations were controlled by the bank and the CEC. The State Duma deputies elections will take place on September 18-20, 2026.
