Since President Vladimir Putin launched his full-scale military invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, Russian authorities have continued their systematic harassment and prosecution of religious minority communities within the Russian Federation, while simultaneously launching the largest crackdown on independent civil society in decades. This country update provides an overview of religious freedom conditions in Russia following its most recent invasion of Ukraine. It discusses the Russian government’s use of vague, problematic legislation to oppress religious communities and fine and imprison members for their peaceful religious activities. It also highlights Russian efforts to suppress human rights organizations, independent media, and dissenters, including those who document religious freedom violations and peacefully protest Russia’s invasion of Ukraine using religious language.

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