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«Stick it»: it’s all our own fault
The new «W-M» crew begins their flight and looks into why sport is simply absurd

Reading time 11 minutes

With autumn moping sweeping the country, it’s high time we turned to energizing and driving films. On this occasion, today we decided to delve into the world of artistic gymnastics and review «Stick it», starring the feisty Missy Peregrym!

Мисси Перегрим с коллегами по фильму (источник: Кинориум) — Missy Peregrym with her film colleagues (source: Kinorium)

Storyline

A woman’s eye

«Stick it» is based on the story of a strong girl with «sports in her blood». But her parents’ divorce and the disgrace of a previous competition discourage her from aspiring to anything, much less a gymnastics career. The new Haley Graham chooses individuality and freedom to be in control of herself and her life rather than «six hours of daily exercise that kills you». Fun friends, BMX freestyle and a fresh breeze in her head. Soon, however, Haley has to face up to the gritty world of gymnastics and her carefully forgotten past again, because otherwise, she’ll face jail time. It’s up to the heroine to rein in her rebellious spirit and learn some important life lessons. What’s really wrong with the world of artistic gymnastics? What does winning depend on, and what is its true value?

Burt Vickerman and Hayley Graham in the gymnasium, still from the film (source: MoviePlay)

But «Stick it» isn’t really about sport. It’s a film about life, about growing up, about finding your values. The main characters of the film are, first of all, ordinary people, with their personal problems, and only then – strong-willed athletes. Haley tries to cope with the resentment of her mother leaving the family, Joanne dreams of going to the prom, and Burt Vickerman struggles with his greed for victories.

A man’s perspective

The plot is interesting in that, if reversed, you get another stand-alone statement. In the exposition, we see a girl (Haley) completely disillusioned with the sport and finding her place in the skateboarding subculture. She sees sport – in this case, gymnastics – through. And it is extremely difficult to argue with her views: sport is indeed traumatic, both physically and mentally. A bizarre set of circumstances, or rather a choice without a choice (in which she is willing to choose prison and the military academy over returning to gymnastics, but her opinion is ignored) forces her to return to sport and take revenge (on herself or on life?). Throughout the film, her beliefs don’t really change. Rather, Hayley acts as a messiah and opens the eyes of other girl athletes, and therein lies her rebelliousness.
Turning the plot around in reverse order, we get a character who is disillusioned with the sport and has found herself in a different occupation and a different society. I don’t claim to know which is better, the original or the reverse, but the second is at least closer to the truth.

What's behind the cheeky shell? (source: Irecommend) — What’s behind the cheeky shell? (source: Irecommend)

Directing

A woman’s eye

«Stick it» is directed by Jessica Bendinger, who is known for writing scripts for films such as, «Bring it on» and «Aquamarine». Jessica is also the scriptwriter of some episodes of the popular TV series «Sex and the City».

Jessica Bendinger with the cast (source: kinomania)

Bendinger spent several years researching and selecting material on the sport of gymnastics before starting work on the film. She subsequently created a documentary presentation based on them, after which several studios were interested in the project. However, Disney got the rights for the project and so Bendinger made her directorial debut. Jessica thus completed her project for Touchstone Pictures in association with Spyglass Entertainment.
Despite the fact that «Stick it» pretends to be a sports story genre, many critics gave the film low marks precisely because of its poor conveyance of the atmosphere of sports. However, if you look at the film as a whole, you can’t help but enjoy it in terms of music, styling and color correction.

Still from the film, 2006 (source: Kinopoisk)

The costumes of the gymnasts reflect the inner world and character of each heroine. Haley Graham’s fiery leotard, in which the rebel gymnast performed freestyle exercises at the US championships to driving music, deserves special attention.

The musical component of the film is also admirable. The lead song was sung by six-time «Grammy» winner (Missy Elliott), and Mike Simpson, who has written music for such critically acclaimed hits as «Fight Club», «Road Trip» and «Freaky Friday», worked on most of the soundtrack.
It is also worth noting the presence of interesting technical tricks in the film, thanks to which «Stick it» looks with interest and does not lose its dynamism. The school championship scene which is mounted in kaleidoscope style stands out in this regard. All the gymnasts in brightly colored leotards and fast music perform their routines at the same time.

School championships, still from film (source: l2db)

Also very evocative was the introduction scene of the two significant characters in the film, Burt Wickerman and Joanne. The figures of both characters scrolled 360 degrees while information about them appeared on the screen nearby.

A man’s perspective

The film offers aggressive editing in the comedy and action scenes, and conversely, long, even slow-motion shots in the drama scenes, further enhancing the emotional edge of the action. The overall aesthetic, coupled with soundtracks and sound effects, is reminiscent of MTV music videos. Flip phones, BMX bikes, snapbacks all evoke a sense of nostalgia for the early to mid-2000s, the time when the film was released.

Overall impression

A woman’s perspective.

The story may be sagging in terms of sports atmospherics, but «Stick it» is definitely a colorful, stylistic film that’s a pleasure to watch. At the same time, the film is not devoid of meaning; each protagonist has his own drama and questions about himself and his life.

The film is really not about sport but about people. Haley Graham tries to understand who is guilty of her failures throughout the whole film. Eventually, the girl realizes that there is no point in looking for those responsible – she has to act because everything depends only on herself. This allows the protagonist to curb her rebellious spirit and gain the courage to take complete control of her life.

The film leaves a pleasant aftertaste, brimming with inspiration and hope. The story brings out the universal rule of life: it’s never too late to take matters into your own hands. And it doesn’t matter at all whether the issue is sports, decency or winning. In this respect, it’s a good thing that the subject matter is not limited to sports because this makes «Stick it» more interesting to a wider audience.

Burt Vickerman and Hayley Graham at the US Championships, still from the film (source: MoviePlay)

The male perspective

The film, which is announced as a sports drama, maintains a relaxed atmosphere. And though the humor is sometimes based on toilet jokes and stereotypical behavior of the stereotypical characters, you don’t have a desire to switch it off – all the same it is a light film for an evening viewing, preferably in the company of your friends. As for the overall message, it’s clear: if the sport is brutal and meaningless and – since you happen to be there – stay in solidarity with your partners and rivals, and be prepared to take responsibility for your actions. A similar philosophy should be transferred to life. For Haley, it does, as the sport becomes just the backdrop to a central message voiced by the heroine herself: «We are the only ones responsible for everything. That’s the real reality».

Vedomosti, Kommersant and RBC published the same front page for the first time in history
They were all dedicated to Ivan Golunov, who was supported by the journalistic community

Reading time 4 minutes

Russia’s three major business newspapers supported the decision of the Moscow Nikulinsky District Court. It placed journalist Ivan Golunov under house arrest. Earlier, the Investigative Committee of Russia demanded that Gounov be placed in a detention facility. Journalists called to check the actions of the investigation and provide the results of the check to the mass media.

Historical editions of newspapers were sold in Moscow and St. Petersburg, Interfax reports. Residents of cities also reported this on social networks. The owners of newsstands claim that such a rush around the publications Vedomosti, Kommersant and RBC has never happened before. New editions of newspapers are available on Aeroflot’s aircraft, as well as in Starbucks, Coffeemania, and Maccafe coffee shops.

В очереди к очередному киоску поинтересовалась, журналисты ли:- Студент Бауманки- Преподаватель английского – ИнженерСпасибо

Опубликовано Каролиной Гладковой Понедельник, 10 июня 2019 г.

пикетируем в самолёте москва-брюссель pic.twitter.com/BIDttdptxv

— j.s. (@sugueva) June 10, 2019

Medusa’s special correspondent Ivan Golunov was detained on June 6. He is suspected of drug trafficking on a large scale. Golunov does not recognize the guilt. He is convinced that the persecution is related to his professional activities. We are talking about the investigation of the funeral business – the material on corruption. The journalistic community stands with him.

Ivan Golunov denies participation in the sale of narcotic drugs. As proof, he offered the investigators to take the nail cuts, but he was refused. Journalists considered such a response illegal and arranged a rally of support. The next day, the examination was still appointed – tests did not reveal any drug traces.

У здания управления МВД по Москве пикеты не прекращаются и ночью — Single pickets near the Ministry of Internal Affairs

Pickets in support of the journalist do not stop. The special correspondent of Novaya Gazeta and the municipal deputy Ilya Azar said that the actions at Petrovka in Moscow would continue until the release of Ivan Golunov. The journalist was one of the first to speak out in support of a colleague on June 7 and went to a single picket.

Hundreds of people gather at Petrovka to support the journalist

Actions of solidarity are also held in other regions of Russia, for the first time the journalistic community has united on such a scale.

Holocaust through the prism of modernity
The story of 13-year-old Hungarian Jew Eva Heyman recreated in Instagram

Reading time 5 minutes

The story of the Jewish girl Eva Heyman, who died in the Auschwitz camp in 1944, was brought to live in Instagram. The creators of the project showed what would be the life of Eva if she posted on her social media everything she had been going through.

The eva.stories project recreates the events which Eva wrote about in her diary. It consists of 70 short videos that reflect the life of a Jewish family during the war years. Everything is depicted in insta-stories format, in the profile, the authors of the project posted only a poster and a trailer. The role of Eva Heyman is played by British actress Mia Quiney.

View this post on Instagram

Eva.Stories Official Trailer

A post shared by Eva (@eva.stories) on Apr 28, 2019 at 4:36am PDT

War first comes to Eva’s family when her cousin gets deported to Poland. After some time, the accomplices of the Nazis come to the pharmacy of the Eva’s grandfather and confiscate it in favor of the government. The decisive moment for Eva Heyman’s fate is the day when she sees the incoming Nazi army. From now on, she promises subscribers to broadcast everything that happens. The girl shows the details of life with a yellow star on her chest. In the ghetto.

Ева Хейман, жертва Холокоста — Eva Heyman is a Holocaust victim whose story served as a reminder of the tragedy

The project was sponsored by the Israeli businessman Mati Kochavi and his daughter Maya. It was launched on May 2nd, Holocaust Memorial Day. Before filming the story of Heyman, Mati and Maya Kochavi looked through about 30 diaries written by the victims of those events. But Eva’s diary stood out for its modernity and simpleness.

Злосчастная желтая звезда, которую евреи впоследствии были обязаны нашивать на наиболее заметные места своей одежды, стала самым зримым символом нацистского антисемитизма. — The Yellow star – a symbol of Nazi antisemitism, all Jews were obliged to sew it on prominent places of clothing

Before launching the eva.stories the authors widely announced the project both on street billboards and in social media. The initiative was supported by Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel. The account was also noted by different celebrities in their profiles, including the actress Gal Gadot («Wonder Woman») and the stand-up comedian Sarah Silverman. As a result, the account had around 200.000 followers before it was even launched. Now Eva’s profile has about 1.7 million subscribers.

Билборд с рекламой Instagram-аккаунта Eva.stories — The billboard advertising the Eva.stories Instagram account

The initiator and producer of the project Mati Kochavi believes that the world is beginning to forget about the terrible events of the Holocaust. That is why he created the project and invested about $5 million in it. Neither the government nor any organizations financed the creation of Eva’s profile.

Although, there are some critics on the way. Disputes in the comments under the publications in Eva’s profile do not cease. Users think that the profile is not serious enough. Critics of the project reckon that it is inappropriate to use Emoji, stickers and hashtags when it comes to the Holocaust. Many also criticize the implausibility of Eva’s modern story. For instance, how did the girl manage to charge the phone if there was no electricity in the ghetto?

According to Maya Kochavi, their team was expecting this kind of reaction as well. However, Kochavi family is convinced that they chose the best way to address the situation: the problem of antisemitism does not lose its relevance. Instagram platform was chosen for a reason: it was important to bring the issue to the younger generation.

“Well, what happened while I was gone?”
Барак Обама выступил с речью впервые после того, как покинул Белый дом

Reading time 10 minutes

Sorry, this text was translated with Google machine. Mistakes and misunderstandings are possible!

What happened?

During the first public appearances after stepping down as President Barack Obama spoke about the intention to work with young people and to prepare politicians of the new generation. At the meeting with students of the University of Chicago, the former President spoke about America, leadership, appropriate behavior in social networks and even marriage. “What he is not touched, so it’s his successor,” the otmechaet by the Associated Press.

Return to home

His speech, the politician decided to start with a joke: “Well, what happened while I was gone?” After a short introduction-story of a native city and the University of Chicago, where he led constitutional and electoral law before he was elected to the Senate, Obama admitted that this stage of life wants to work with young professionals.

“Despite the fact that there are many issues that need attention, the most important thing I can do to help prepare the next generation of leaders to take our relay in this changing world”.

Post to Twitter the University of Chicago

Obama stated with confidence that to get rid of the rift that formed between parties after elections in November 2016, I can only young Americans. For this reason, it will work with those who are planning to take seats in the government.

“In whatever state I may be, I always meet a witty, insightful, patient, thoughtful and enterprising guys. They are the reason I remain optimistic, even when things don’t go the way I want”.

Most of the time, Obama asked the students, while talking about their own way to the head of the United States. Topics raised at the forum was the transformation of the judicial system, the influence of money on politics, ecology and citizenship of young people.

“It’s something that prevents us to face the problems and to achieve success in political and public life,” said the ex-President.

Obama gave the students some advice. For example, to watch what they post in social networks, to be closer to family, “listening to understand, not to reply”, and, most importantly, “to worry less about who they want to be, but more about what you want to do.”

Press Reaction

For half an hour, during which lasted the forum, Barack Obama never mentioned the name of the current President of the United States Donald trump, and has also avoided direct criticism of his actions, notes CNN.

Obama has made it clear he was not going to become a “mouthpiece of the Democratic party” and to participate in the current political struggle. “He prefers to play the role of a counselor and stay in the shade. However, at the right time, when needed, he will go out from there,” quotes CNN.

“the American presidency directly after the withdrawal from his post did not interfere in politics. So the current policy it to intervene will not. Obama chose the path of public activities — work with young people. I think that’s what he will do,” noted the Director of Fund of studying of the USA Franklin Roosevelt MSU Yuri Rogalev on radio Sputnik.

Another point which attracted the attention of the American media, is the level of the speech of the former and present owners of the White house. American journalist and comedian Andy Borowitz in The New Yorker magazine prokomentiroval it’s the 44th President of the United States: “In his speech at the University of Chicago, former President Barack Obama unleashed on the listener merciless barrage of complete sentences, which was perceived as a brutal attack on his successor”.

Column by Andy Borowitz at the New Yorker — Column by Andy Borowitz in the New Yorker

On Obama’s speech and reacted to in social networks, Twitter and Instagram was full of posts with the hashtag #IMissObama.

post with the hashtag #IMissObama — Posts with the hashtag #IMissObama

American Reaction to Obama's speech in Instagram — American Reaction to Obama’s speech in Instagram

Up to this point, the former head of US tried not to appear in public. In March the Washington Post soosaluthat Obama moved to the island of Tetiaroa in the Pacific ocean, to begin work on his memoirs. But after Chicago, ex-President of the performances in the major cities of America and Europe. In addition, turned out that Obama is bound by a contract with the Bank Cantor Fitzgerald, who arranges a meeting on health issues for the largest companies on wall street. For the show, which will take place in September this year, he will pay $400 thousand, which is twice the amount received for lectures Hilary Clinton, former Secretary of state and candidate for U.S. President in 2016, notes TASS reported.

What was remembered in Russia for eight years of the reign of Barack Obama?

From the statements of Obama on the “Russian theme”.

“Russia is a regional power”

In March 2014, the meeting with mark Rutte, Prime Minister of the Netherlands, Obama was asked to comment on remarks Republican MITT Romney that Russia is the biggest geopolitical enemy of America.

“Russia is a regional power, and not because of strength, but its weakness is a threat to some of its neighbors, Obama said. — Russia’s actions do not represent the number one threat to the national security of the United States. I remain much more concerned about the question of our security in connection with threat of distribution of nuclear weapons”.

“Russia is isolated and its economy in tatters”

In January 2015, the traditional state of the Union address Barack Obama said that sanctions have completely destroyed the Russian economy:

“Last year, on the background of the aggression of Mr Putin, we, together with allies carried out the hard work of imposing sanctions, strengthened our presence in the frontline States. Some said that Putin’s actions workshop was a demonstration of strategy and power. But today, that America is strong and United with our allies, while Russia is isolated and its economy in tatters”.

“will he (Putin) is to destroy the economy of his country?”

From the speech at the G7 summit in June 2015:

“Will he (Putin) is to destroy the economy of the country, worsen the position of Russia in its quest to restore the glory of the Soviet Empire? Or recognizes, finally, that the glory of Russia not to violate the territorial integrity of neighboring countries?”

“Ronald Reagan in a coffin would be turned over”

At a press conference at the White house December 16, 2016 on the choice of the Republicans:

“37 % of Republican voters approve of Vladimir Putin, the former head of the KGB. Ronald Reagan in a coffin would be turned over”, — said the President of the United States.

“Russia is smaller and weaker country, they do not produce anything that others want to buy”

16 December 2016 at a press conference in the White house Barack Obama is constantly talking about Russia. Particularly striking was the comparison of Russia with the United States:

“Russia is smaller and weaker from the point of view of Economics, they do not produce anything that others want to buy, with the exception of oil, gas and weapons. They do not innovate”.

What else to read?

Step to the Elysee Palace
Макрон победил в первом туре выборов президента Франции

Reading time 8 minutes

Sorry, this text was translated with Google machine. Mistakes and misunderstandings are possible!

What happened?

In France on 23 April, the first round of the presidential election. The leader of movement “Forward!” and former economy Minister Emmanuel macron scored 23.75% of the votes. Next is the head of “National front” marine Le Pen – 21,53%.

results of the first round — Source ria.ru

In Paris for the Makron vote 34% of the vote, while Le Pen in the capital supported for 4.99%. The macron has become a leader in Lyon, in the Department of Gironde (capital Bordeaux), Toulouse and several other cities. Turnout made 78,23%.

the Distribution of candidates-leaders of departments of France — the Distribution of candidates-leaders in the departments of France

Who maintains the Rules?

The current President of France Francois Hollande congratulated Emmanuel Macron with a victory in the first stage of the presidential election and officially said that will vote for the founder of the movement “Forward!”.

Loser “Republican” Francois Fillon (he third place, 19,91%) urged his supporters to vote in the second round of the Macron. He added that the victory of marine Le Pen may lead the country to collapse.

The candidate of the Socialist party, Benoit Hamon, the Prime Minister of France Bernard Cazeneuve, Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault also made in support of the Macron.

What do the winners of the first round?

After the results of Makron made in front of supporters and journalists at the exhibition complex of Porte de Versailles on the outskirts of Paris. He said that he was going to become President of France in 15 days, “President of the patriots vs nationalists”, “a President who protects, changes and builds.”

“We got a chance to turn the page in French political history. The French expressed the desire for renewal”.

Marine Le Pen meeting with supporters in Henin-beaumont in the Pas-de-Calais called the result of the first round of “historic”. In her view, at stake is “frightening globalization” that threatens the nation.

“it is Time to liberate the French people from the shackles of the arrogant elite who dictates his will. And Yes, I’m the people’s candidate“.

protest

During the vote to a precinct in the town of Henin-beaumont, where the votes of marine Le Pen, here Nude Femen activists wearing masks itself Le Pen, her father Jean-Marie, Bashar al-Assad, Vladimir Putin and Donald trump. They were detained by the police.

After the publication of the first results of the elections in Paris on Bastille square was held a rally “anti-fascists and anti-capitalists” who were against Le Pen, and Emmanuel Macron. About 300 protesters chanted: “We still, marine Le Pen or macron! We do not recognize the election results!”. The police used against the demonstrators with tear gas. 143 people arrested in clashes with police injured three protesters and six police officers.

Emmanuel macron and his program

Macron studied in National school of administration and Institute for policy studies. In 2007 he served as Deputy Rapporteur for the Commission on the improvement of French growth led by Jacques Attali. Then he met with the influential Rothschild family, became an investment banker at Rothschild &Cie Banque. From 2012 to 2014 he was Deputy Secretary-General of the Elysee Palace with President Francois Hollande.

Since August 2014, he occupied the post of Minister of economy, Finance and industry, but two years later resigned.

In April 2016, macron has created a movement of “Go!“, declaring it “neither right nor left”. In November 2016, macron said about his participation in the presidential election and published a book-the “Revolution”.

The candidate refers the project “the economy of the future” and identifies six priority areas: education, employment, modernization of the economy, security, restoration of democracy and participation in international life.

	offers?
Education	reducing the number of students in classes independent schools increase the number of teachers four or five thousand people
	wage increases extension of unemployment benefits development of training programs to employees enhancement of agreements between enterprises and the industry
Security	creation of a domestic intelligence for counter-terrorism increase defense spending to 2% of GDP the introduction of compulsory military service for boys and girls additional employment of 10 thousand policemen and gendarmes
	reduce state spending by 60 billion euros over five years introduction of a luxury tax (real estate) the introduction of a fixed tax of 30 % on capital income abolition of this tax from the voters for 80% of families
Democracy	permit hijabs in universities support for gender equality
International relations	strengthening cooperation between the countries of the European Union building a “demanding” dialogue with Russia to resolve the crisis in Ukraine and Syria

Earlier macron stressed that “doesn’t want to compromise with Putin.”

“Russia has great people, great culture and history. We were often allies, including during the Soviet era. However, to date there is no reason to allow Russia to violate international law,” said macron interview the magazine Jeune Afrique.

Press Secretary of the President Dmitry Peskov said that Moscow is committed to building a “good and mutually beneficial relations” with Paris.

“as for the elections, we respect the choice of the French people. The French must decide who will be their President.”

What experts say

Doctor of historical Sciences, Deputy Dean of the faculty of World economy and world politics HSE Igor Kovalyov specifically for HIT. MEDIA:

Program of Macron is an attempt to maintain the course that France was preaching and implemented. Given the contemporary challenges of migration crisis and the crisis in the European Union and against the background of a British exit from the EU, I think it is unlikely that this policy will seriously improve the situation of France and strengthen its status in Europe.

If it does the script, which at one time worked against Jean-Marie Le pen, when all candidates and all political forces United only in order not to let the right front, the Makron could become President. Another thing is that since that time has been quite a dramatic change, changed France, changed the party “national front”, marine Le Pen is not such an unusual candidate, like her father. Let’s see how events will develop. After the first round there are still two weeks will be a continuation of the campaign, with a new composition – not eleven, but two candidates.

Second round of presidential elections will be held on 7 may.

Now you can, Mr. Erdogan!
Референдум в Турции наделяет президента «султанскими» полномочиями

Reading time 8 minutes

Sorry, this text was translated with Google machine. Mistakes and misunderstandings are possible!

What happened?

Held on 16 April referendum, the majority of Turkish citizens voted for the introduction of the 18th amendment to the Constitution of the country. According to these amendments, the Republic of Turkey changed the form of government from a parliamentary to presidential, and the President is concentrating in their hands almost unlimited power. Thus abolishes the post of Prime Minister, the President is entitled to appoint Ministers and other senior officials, as well as the majority of constitutional court judges without the approval of Parliament. He controls the state budget, can dissolve the Parliament and to enter in the country state of emergency. After the entry into force of amendments in the Constitution, Erdogan will remain head of state until 2029 as the current term of his presidency will be cancelled.

At the same time, the Parliament will have the power to impeach. The number of deputies will increase from 550 to 600, and presidential and parliamentary elections will be held on the same day every 5 years.

‘ll Wait if “strong hand”?

Supported at the referendum of constitutional amendments in most of them should enter into force after the next presidential election, scheduled for November 2019. Opposition politicians fear that Erdogan will be able to obtain additional authority before this term, however, the Deputy Prime Minister Mehmet Simsek assured that nothing of the sort is planned.

The opposition leader Fethullah Gulen, see in the upcoming reform of the “hard dictatorship” and the collapse of democracy in the country.

The idea of “strong hand” gained popularity in the Turkish society especially after the failed military coup in July 2016. After the referendum, Erdogan rally in Istanbul promised to raise the issue of the return of the death penalty, which Turkey has been formally abolished in 2002 as the fulfillment of the requirements of the European Union on the admission of the country into its ranks.

feedback on the referendum

Before the end of counting of votes of the opposition “Republican people’s party” (CHP) has questioned the legitimacy of the vote, demanding a recount of up to 60% of the vote. The reason was sudden change rules of acceptance of ballots. According to the Chairman of the CHP Kemal kılıçdaroğlu, the commissions began to accept ballots without the seal, although such ballots were considered invalid.

Manfred Weber, the German politician and the leader of the center-right group, wrote on Twitter: “Regardless of the outcome of the referendum Erdogan split the country.”

After the April referendum American CNN said that Turkish democracy was dead, and the counting of votes was rigged.

The President of the United States trump congratulated Erdogan on winning the referendum and thanked for the support of the American missile attack in response to “the use of chemical weapons” in Flibe.

Context: Turkish-Russian relations

In 2015, Russia’s relations with Turkey have deteriorated sharply because of a downed Turkish fighter jet Russian su-24, which carried out the bombing site near the Syrian-Turkish border. In this regard, has suspended sale of vacation packages to Turkey, in November 2015 Vladimir Putin signed a decree a ban on the import of certain types of goods into the territory of the Russian Federation. In response, Turkey refused from Russian grain. Because of the embargo on the Turkish vegetables, the price of tomatoes in Russia, according to some experts, has increased three times. Overall both sides suffered losses amounting to billions of dollars.

In June 2016 Recep Tayyip Erdogan has sent Vladimir Putin a letter of apology for the downed aircraft and talked to him on the phone bilateral relations. After that, the sale of tours to Turkey resumed. In December 2016 in Ankara was killed by Russian Ambassador Andrei Karlov, which Russia suspended the debate on the abolition of visas for Turkish citizens.

From January 2017 for the first time Russia together with the Turkish armed forces began to strike back at terrorist groups in Syria. However, the positions of countries on the Syrian conflict differ substantially with respect to some opposing the government of Syria groups, as well as President Bashar al-Assad.

the Mikhail Delyagin, writer:

– Finding essentially absolute power, Erdogan has taken a clear anti-Russian position along with trump calling for Assad’s responsibility for chemical attack in Idlib and declaring us “grain war.” The hostility of Erdogan’s actions are obvious. Probably, it is supposed that “Russian is not going anywhere” and will endure all for the sake of the recovery of tourism and the creation of the “Turkish stream”.

backwards – from the European Union?

Supporters of Turkey’s accession to the EU believe that the country is “global geo-strategic player” and a “bridge between West and East.” Opponents point to the non-observance by Turkey of the principles of liberal democracy, such as freedom of speech.

According to Erdogan, in 2015, only 20% of the population wanted the joining of Turkey to the EU, while in 2005 this number reached 75%. Turkish Deputy Prime Minister Bulent ARINC said that the accession to the European Union ceased to be of interest to the citizens of the country.

expert Opinion

Researcher, Institute of Oriental studies Ilshat Saitov specifically for Hit.media:

– Presidential system implies a different management style. In a parliamentary system, erdoğan has been a kind of exception: after Ataturk and Ismet Inonu, the first two leaders of the Republic, which were quite authoritarian and rigid, had been introduced a multi-party system, Turkey has become more democratic and pluralistic. Erdogan returned to the days of one-party system, lays the Foundation for the next President had far greater powers than the Prime Minister in a parliamentary Republic. Strategically it will affect Russian-Turkish relations.

the Sergey Tsyplyaev, Dean of the law faculty of the Northwest Institute of managment, member of Committee of Civil initiatives (in an interview to “echo of Moscow”):

– Turkey froze in that position like a pendulum at the top – where’s it headed? Or she will go further in the direction of modernization on the road, which started Kemal Ataturk, pulling the Turkey out of the world of the Middle East, or it fell in the same vortex when you will be irremovable, weak, corrupt regimes. And then the entire opposition, in the absence of other options, will begin to take on terrorist, extremist, fanatical character.

Argument or agreement?
Чем закончилась встреча Лаврова и Тиллерсона в Москве

Reading time 13 minutes

Sorry, this text was translated with Google machine. Mistakes and misunderstandings are possible!

What happened?

In Moscow ended a meeting of Sergei Lavrov and Rex Tillerson, held April 12 in the closed mode. As the results of the talks, the parties held a press conference late in the night, also noting that Secretary of state was made personally by Vladimir Putin. According to representatives of the Russian Federation and the United States, the meeting was quite promising: the politicians discussed many important issues and listened to the perspective of each other.

Working group to address urgent issues

A major outcome of the talks was the decision on the allocation of the special representatives of Russia and the U.S. for further discussion of problematic issues in relations between the two countries. The working group will, according to Lavrov, “in detail, without emotion, to look at those irritants that have accumulated in relations in recent years”. U.S. Secretary of state supports this idea, noting that Russia and the United States do not trust each other. “The two nuclear powers can’t be in this state,” said Tillerson.

Fate of Syria

However, the main theme of the meeting remained the Syrian issue, the views of the parties which seriously broke. The biggest conflict arose around the recent missile strike the U.S. air base in Syria. Russia regards this move as a deliberate provocation aimed at the overthrow of current President Bashar al-Assad. USA, in turn, confident in the correctness of the decision, although official evidence of the use of chemical weapons by Syria is not currently provided. CNN, however, utverjdaetthat American intelligence was able to intercept the Syrian military for this reason.

Sergei Lavrov and Rex Tillerson also discussed the future of Syria, which the current President, according to the American side, no place. U.S. Secretary of state said that “Assad’s regime is coming to an end” due to years of war in the country. Tillerson, however, said that the Syrian President “must undergo a structured and organized manner”, and expressed hope for cooperation with Russia in this matter. Lavrov in response said that Russia “does not rely on any person, neither for Assad nor for someone else,” and the question about the future of Syria should be resolved by the Syrians themselves.

Despite numerous disagreements, the sides still managed to identify a common position regarding the Syrian issue. So, Lavrov and Tillerson agreed that the fight against terrorism in the middle East need to fight together. The Russian side agreed to renew the Memorandum on the prevention of incidents in the skies over Syria, though allies will not follow it further violations.

Counteraction of the DPRK

During the talks, the sides also discussed the recently intensified the situation around the DPRK and its nuclear tests. In addition to the frequent discussions about possible US military action against Pyongyang, there is concern about the US decision to send to the Korean Peninsula carrier strike group, which not approved the DPRK. In dialogue with Lavrov Tillerson noted that the maneuvers of the ships was planned in advance, and the international community have no need for “something to turn up, due to their location and location”.

Further adding fuel to the fire of the recent publikacja New York Times on a possible nuclear test of the DPRK. The journalists believe that Pyongyang might time the sixth missile launch to the 105th anniversary since the birth of Kim Il sung. Against this background, particularly important seems the Tillerson comment about the fact that Washington and Moscow agree on the need for nuclear disarmament of the DPRK.

Minsk agreement

During the talks also touched upon the question of the Minsk agreements. According to Sergei Lavrov, Russia “felt interests” of the American side of the bilateral dialogue on the situation in Ukraine. “We have a common position that the Minsk agreement 2015 must be fulfilled”, – said the head of the foreign Ministry. Western sanctions against Russia at the meeting were discussed.

“Russian hackers”

The issue of cybersecurity, a newly-emerged after the charges Russia’s meddling in the elections in the United States, was also raised at the meeting in Moscow. Tillerson once again pointed to the presence of incontrovertible evidence of the invasion of “Russian hackers” in American cyberspace, however, the proof was never provided. Lavrov recalled U.S. Secretary of state about received even in 2015, the proposal to establish a joint fight against cybercrime, and noted that Russia “this interest is not only preserved, but also fully relevant.”

Future prospects

The development of bilateral relations between Russia and the United States is complicated primarily because of the contradictory foreign policy of the American side. Besides the attack on a military base in Syria, here we can recall the decision on adoption of Montenegro to NATO, which Moscow believe “deeply flawed”. The Ministry of foreign Affairs of the Russian Federation in his message said that the event “damages the stability in the Balkans and in Europe as a whole” and does not take into account the views of the people of the country.

However, the results of the meeting of representatives of Russia and the United States are leaving hope that the stabilization of relations between the two countries. Serey Lavrov after it also noted that “many hours that we spent today with Rex Tillerson together with the President of the Russian Federation, were not spent in vain”, and also expressed hope for the continuation of contacts. The administration of the President of the United States, in turn, said the timeliness of the meeting, and he, Donald trump said that Tillerson has done a “tremendous job”.

expert Comments Hit.Media

Andrey Vinogradov, doctor of political Sciences, Professor of the higher school of Economics, believes that Russian-American relations, all is not lost, despite the current deplorable situation:

“We have the official position, which is shared by the Kremlin and the White house: relations between Russia and the U.S. are at the lowest stage in many years. It is a statement that does not doubt and does not contradict positions of the parties. From that moment on, our relationship deteriorated, the experts and the one and on the other hand was hoping that the lower point will be passed. But each time these predictions did not materialize. It was for many reasons both fundamental and situational”

The expert notes that trump, despite the skeptical attitude towards it, has the ability to take a new look at the situation in the U.S. foreign policy and to take measures that will help to strengthen relations with Russia. This is evidenced by the fact of arrival to Moscow Tillerson is the beginning of direct contact, establish the main positions of the parties and finding a solution that satisfies everyone.

“What happens next? Our relationship still has room to fall. However, the closer we get to this bottom, the higher the probability that the trend will change. Yesterday’s meeting could be a point when the relationship will change. Much will depend on Americans, their political situation, because, of course, trump is a serious impact,”

Andrey Vinogradov notes that the United States currently face many different problems ranging from the threat of international terrorism originating in the events of 2001, and ending North Korea’s nuclear program poses a real threat to world leadership. America wants to maintain its position as one of the leading countries, but to do it every year it becomes harder.

“I think that Americans, by the force of inertia of consciousness and other reasons, remains as the main threat perceived by Russia. For some time they forgot about it, but again think about the threat to their leadership from Russia has helped the situation in the middle East, particularly in Syria and the situation in Eastern Ukraine and the annexation of Crimea”

However, the threat from China also seems to Americans very significant. It is no accident that all the recent US presidents, both Obama and trump, almost immediately after his inauguration, met with the Chinese leaders and then – from Russian. This clearly demonstrates the careful attention of America to China, albeit spreading more on the economic sphere. Russia is perceived as a global political rival, whose influence should be limited.

“During the 1970-ies we talked about a geopolitical triangle (USA, USSR, China), in 80-e years this concept went out of circulation, and now again possible to say that the trend of development of global international relations can be described by the concepts of simple geometric shapes. Triangle, if we are talking about East Asia, or quadrangle – if you add the European Union. I think that our relations with the United States can be considered now it is in these two geometric figures”

Dmitry Novikov, Junior researcher, Center for comprehensive European and international studies higher school of Economics, on the contrary, doubts that Russian-American relations can be a bright future. The expert attributes this primarily to provide for trump’s pressure, which is beneficial to Russia in the short term, but strategically, it carries large risks.

“The situation in Syria can negatively affect relations between the two countries, especially if the administration trump will adhere to the strategy of unilateral actions aimed at overthrowing the Assad regime. From the Russian point of view, articulated by trump during the presidential campaign, the abandonment of the practice of regime change was one of the positive aspects that Moscow welcomed. A return to this policy will meet the resistance of Russia and deterioration of relations. However, the visit Tillerson showed that the administration trump continues to seek ways to conclude a “deal” with Russia, albeit from a position of strength”

However, the probability of success of such a “deal” faster tends to zero. Starting in 2014 Russia and the United States are in a state of systemic confrontation and work exclusively in the military sphere, trying to avoid direct armed conflict. An example of such cooperation can serve the Memorandum on the prevention of incidents in the skies over Syria, which, however, is now suspended. Thus, the confrontation between Moscow and the USA almost reached its peak.

“The fundamental reasons for this confrontation are the fundamentally different approaches of Russia and the United States to how and on what principles should be arranged in the global political order, including a different assessment of the role of new centers of power in it. From the point of view of the United States, nor Russia, nor even China can’t act as equal partners of Washington. The importance of the Crimea in this sense goes far beyond Ukraine and even Europe, Russia has demonstrated the ability and willingness to use military force without the consent of other great powers and permanent members of the UN security Council”

Additional information:

- Detailed description of the negotiations, RIA-Novosti

Infographics of missile strike in Syria

History of NATO enlargement

Trump burn bridges in relations with Russia
Далеко идущие последствия ракетного удара США по сирийской авиабазе

Reading time 10 minutes

Sorry, this text was translated with Google machine. Mistakes and misunderstandings are possible!

What happened?

The seventh of April, about 4:00 in the morning local time, US forces launched a missile strike on Syrian airbase “Sirat”. From the Mediterranean sea near Crete, us destroyers “porter” and “Ross” was released 59 “Tomahawk”, the purpose of which became a military facility in the province of HOMS (approximately 160 km South of Damascus).

The same day Donald trump said that the strike was a response to a chemical attack in the province of Idlib, which, according to the Pentagon, was carried out by the Syrian air force, stationed at the “Sirat”. The American President said that “preventing and deterring the proliferation and use of deadly chemical weapons in the interests of national security of the United States.”

According to Russian sources, of the 59 cruise missiles to the airbase Shirt flew only 23. The exact number of victims is not yet established, “Izvestiya” reported ten victims of war. It is also known that as a result of the strike destroyed the warehouse, radar, school building and six MiG-23.

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Press Secretary of the President Dmitry Peskov said that Putin considers strikes of the U.S. armed forces against Syria “aggression under false pretenses” and a “violation of international law.” According to the President, the chemical weapons from the Syrian authorities not – it was destroyed under the supervision of a special organization authorized by the UN. Putin also sees the strikes on Syria by United States attempt to divert world attention from the numerous victims among the civilian population in Iraq. He believes that “this move brings us closer to the ultimate goal in the fight against international terrorism, but on the contrary creates a serious obstacle to the creation of the international coalition to counter it and effectively counter this evil world that the President of the United States Donald trump proclaimed as one of the main objectives even during his election campaign.”

Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov compared the incident with the situation in Iraq in 2003, when “the United States and the United Kingdom together with its allies invaded Iraq without the consent of the security Council”.

The representative of the Russian foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova announced the suspension of the Memorandum on the prevention of air incidents in Syria between Russia and the United States. After the signing of the Memorandum us and Russian military had a round the clock communication channel and to notify each other about planned operations. This helps to avoid collision of aircraft and ensure the security of the military on both sides.

What was the reason?

Early in the morning on the territory of Syria was used chemical weapons – presumably, chlorine or sarin. The attack was carried out from aircraft, eyewitnesses reported that it could be Syrian fighter-bombers su-22. According to human rights, from poisoning killed 72 people, including 20 children. Thus, the Ministry of defense of Syria, its involvement in the airstrike completely denies.

According to Donald trump, “none of the children of the Lord” shall not pass through the horror, through which Syrian civilians”. He called to “end the slaughter and bloodshed in Syria, and terrorism of all kinds and all types.”

Responsibility for the chemical attack in Idlib most of the countries put on the Damascus – this was stated by NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and the President of the European Council Donald Tusk. French President Francois Hollande called the incident a war crime.

Reaction of the world community

Prime Minister Theresa may has called America’s actions “commensurate with impact” in response to Assad. Angela Merkel and Francois Hollande admitted the attack on the airbase justified, but called back to resolve the situation in Syria under the auspices of the UN. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu supported the decision of Donald trump, saying that he “made clear that it will not tolerate the use and proliferation of chemical weapons.” Also, the number of countries that have approved the decision of the United States, were Japan, Saudi Arabia, Netherlands, Italy.

An emergency UN Security Council held on 7 April at the request of Bolivia, backed by Russia, showed a divergence of views on this issue. The representative of Bolivia has compared the current situation to 2003, when U.S. Secretary of state shown here, the vial of “anthrax” as proof of the presence in Iraq of chemical weapons that later turned out to be a fiction. The view that military operations of the Syrian problem cannot be solved, expressed by the representatives of Egypt, Uruguay, Senegal, China and Japan. Britain and France have accused Assad of using chemical weapons, and therefore considered the impact of “Tomahawks” was justified.

Deputy of Russia’s permanent representative to the UN Vladimir Safronkov hit the United States with the criticism, Recalling that a few hours before the missile strike, the security Council tried to agree to conduct a qualified investigation of the events in Flybe to establish the true picture and of the perpetrators of the chemical attacks, but the US rejected this proposal.

The US representative to the UN, Nikki Haley said that “the United States has taken a very reasonable step, and we are ready for further action, but hopefully won’t need it”.

expert Opinion

the Dmitry Novikov, a specialist on Russian-American relations and U.S. foreign policy, believes that the current situation will negatively affect relations of Russia and America and collaboration space will rapidly shrink:

– Discrediting the regime of Bashar al-Assad, trump beats and across Russia, as the sponsor and patron of Assad and his actions. You can say that all hope about improving relations with America since the arrival of trump, now completely vanished. The administration of the tramp moves to the foreign mainstream, established under Obama – the opposition of Russia”.

the Dmitry Suslov, Deputy Director of the faculty of world economy and international Affairs, expert on issues of Russian foreign policy, US foreign policy, Russian-American relations, relations between Russia and the European Union, especially for Hit.media:

– Critical strikes – a turning point in Russian-American relations. What Syria has seen both sides is the most promising direction of the cooperation, but now the Russian perception of the administration of the trump changes. The United States will be submitted to Russia a greater threat than Obama. These strikes have eliminated those positive features of American foreign policy, which stimulated Russia to improve relations with the United States. First and foremost, this positive factor was the failure of the new administration from the policies of regime change in Syria. Today, trump not only dealt a blow to Syria, but said that returns to our strong policy of overthrowing Assad.

Now the Russian-American relationship will teeter on the brink of direct war. Russia’s refusal of the Memorandum on the prevention of military clashes in Syria is already a step in this direction. Russia makes it clear that if the United States will continue to strike on Syrian territory, the Assad regime, Russia will just shoot down American planes and missiles.

I think that this will not happen, although to balance around that, we will. I think that in the end, the parties shall take any measures which would have prevented direct military confrontation. Moreover, the current Russian-American escalation against Syria will have effect also on other areas is likely to be an escalation of the Ukrainian crisis, where the United States is also noticeable a more assertive stance.

In my opinion, the next few months we will be in the most acute crisis in relations between Russia and the United States since the Cuban nuclear crisis in 1962.

What else to read?

And trump says that Crimea is not “ours”
Пресс-секретарь президента США Шон Спайсер сообщил, что Белый дом рассчитывает на возвращение Крыма Украине

Reading time 5 minutes

Sorry, this text was translated with Google machine. Mistakes and misunderstandings are possible!

What happened?

On 14 February during a briefing press Secretary of the President of the United States Sean Spicer said that Donald trump is counting on the return of Crimea to Ukraine: “President trump has made it clear: he expects the Russian government will deal with the de-escalation of violence in Ukraine and return the Crimea”.

Later that same day, Donald trump posted the following tweet: “Russia took Crimea under the Obama administration. Was Obama too soft on Russia?”

Tweet Donald trump — a Tweet by Donald trump

It is worth Recalling that during the election campaign on 1 August 2016 Donald trump, speaking to supporters in Ohio, said the attempt to take away the Crimean Peninsula could lead to the beginning of World war III. During his speech, trump also stressed the fact that the Crimea was taken when the US presidency was occupied by Barack Obama.

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Press Secretary of Russian President Dmitry Peskov (RT quote): “with regard to the return of the Crimea, this topic will not be discussed, because it cannot be discussed. Russia does not discuss issues related to its territory, with foreign partners. The President of Russia very patiently and consistently explained to its partners and interlocutors the reasons that led to the fact that Crimeans decided to seek protection from Russia and become part of it”

The representative of the Russian foreign Ministry Maria Zakharova (quoted by the “Moskovsky Komsomolets”): “my territory is not returned. Crimea is the territory of the Russian Federation”.

Speaker of the state Duma Vyacheslav Volodin (quoted by “Interfax”): “Let us stop talking, discussing the various statements in relation to the Crimea. Crimea is part of Russia. And any talk of who is to disposition of our territory, and the Crimea is part of Russia, is an attack on our integrity, on our territory. Don’t need this topic to raise. Some press Secretary said something… Look, someone else say something”.

Alexey chepa, Chairman of the state Duma international Affairs (quote by “MK”): “Russia will stick to its own national interests.”

Leonid Slutsky, the head of the Duma Committee on international Affairs (quoted by “RIA Novosti”): “the Resignation of Flynn and statements to the press Secretary of the President, including the fact that Russia must “return the Crimea”, show that the inertial flywheel, promoted in Washington against Russia, yet not stopped.”

Reaction of Ukraine

In Kiev, a statement from Washington was perceived very positively. Press Secretary of the President of Ukraine Petro Poroshenko has issued the following comment in social networks (quote on “Apostrophes”): “Good statement. Russia should return the Crimea”.

Earlier, the leader of Ukrainian party of people’s front Arseniy Yatsenyuk (quote by Apostrophe): “This is an important step of the new American administration, which reflects the consistent support of sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine”.

What said about Crimea in the USA

Secretary of state Rex Tillerson January 11, 2017: “We should clearly look at its relations with Russia. Russia is a threat, but action to achieve their own interests can be predicted. She invaded the Ukraine and took Crimea. Supported by the Syrian forces, which violate the rules of war. Our allies in NATO is right when they fear gaining strength Russia”.

US Ambassador to the UN Nikki Haley February 3, 2017:”the United States continues to condemn the occupation of the Crimea by Russia and demand its immediate cessation. Crimea — part of Ukraine. Our sanctions against Russia connected with the Crimea will remain in force as long as Russia does not regain control over the Peninsula”.

Historical background

- April 8, 1783 Catherine II signed the Manifesto on annexation to the Russian power in the Crimean Peninsula.

the

- 19 February 1954, the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR transferred the Crimean oblast from the Russian Federation to the Ukrainian SSR.

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the Crimea joined the Russian Federation after the referendum, which was conducted in the spring of 2014.

Stood up for the honor
Вячеслав Володин выступил за принятие закона о защите чести главы государства

Reading time 6 minutes

Sorry, this text was translated with Google machine. Mistakes and misunderstandings are possible!

What happened?

Chairman of the State Duma Vyacheslav Volodin supported the idea of a law that would protect the President from insults. The proposal on 13 February in Kazan was made by one of the students of Innopolis University. According to Volodina now this issue is not urgent, however, requires consideration, because the institution of the presidency “we need to protect.”

What caused the idea?

According to student Alexander Dolgoborodov, in the press felt the “information reel” on Vladimir Putin, so the question of the punishment of insults to the head of state is becoming increasingly important. The speaker of the State Duma agreed with this statement, and said that such laws have been adopted in many countries. Russia, according to Volodina, the country “more democratic, more open”.

Reaction of the Kremlin

Press-Secretary Dmitry Peskov — Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov

statement press Secretary of President Dmitry Peskov, the question of the introduction of the law “requires study” and study of “international experience”. Open insults to the President’s press Secretary believes to be invalid, but “to a balanced and intelligent criticism of” the President, according to Peskov, is “quite constructive”.

The Experience of other countries

Speaking of “international experience,” Vyacheslav Volodin referred in the USA, where a “simple sayings” to the former President Barack Obama’s “four people received serious sentences — two and a half years of prison”.

Laws to protect the honor of heads of countries and in several European countries. For example, in Poland for insulting remarks about the President can land you in jail for up to 3 years. In Germany and Holland harsher the punishment – from 3 months to 5 years. Denmark is also practised, but in this country the punishment depends on who is offended: for example, if it is a woman, the punishment would be more severe.

However, the most susceptible to insults against heads of state are the Eastern countries. In Turkey you can not offend not only the current leader of the country, but also the first President Kemal Ataturk. But if Turkey violators a maximum will be imprisoned in Iran, who insulted the head of state, could be sentenced to 74 lashes.

As it is now protected by the Russian President?

The criminal code includes article 319, “insulting a representative of authority”, violation of which provides “the penalty to 40 000 roubles,” or up to 1 year of correctional labor. Vladimir Putin, these articles do not blame anyone. However, in may 2006 the Ivanovo Prosecutor’s office opened a criminal case against the chief editor of the Internet publication Kursiv, found in the article “Putin as phallic symbol of Russia” insults to the head of state. As a result, the newspaper was closed, condemned an international organization “reporters without borders”.

Article in "Moscow correspondent" — an article in the “Moscow correspondent”

In 2008, the heads of the newspaper “Moscow correspondent” announced the suspension of the publication. Officially the newspaper was closed because of the loss, however, many doubt the veracity of this version, since the closure of the newspaper took place immediately after the publication of the article about the upcoming wedding of Vladimir Putin and gymnast Alina Kabaeva. The head of the holding “national media company” Alexander Lebedev has called the speculation of journalists “nonsense”, however, the employee of the newspaper Lev Ryzhkov so described the events of that day: “To the editor included some in civilian clothes. Great big big redneck… the time of the withdrawal of our editor-in-chief, I watched with my own eyes… and Then the editor came back… was quite scared.”

In January 2015, a resident of St. Petersburg Alexander Sursis tried to sue the protesters, who shouted obscene insults at the President. Representatives of the Ministry of interior have not found this behavior “nothing illegal“, so the statement of St Petersburg was rejected.

Expert’s opinion

The head of the Council on human rights Mikhail Fedotov he said that it is ready to support the idea, but with one condition – the case is to be initiated “only at the request of the victim”, otherwise it would be contrary to the Constitution, which proclaims the equality of citizens.

According to member of the Communist party Sergei Obukhov, first you need to “perform legal practice.” He also noted that, following this logic, it is necessary to adopt the law “on protection of honor of the Deputy of the state Duma”.

What else to read?

the

- Vyacheslav Volodin on Internet freedom in Russia

the

- the Kremlin’s Reaction to the British presenter on Putin

the

defend the honor of heads of state in other countries