Putin signs law restricting the rights of Kremlin critics living abroad who are prosecuted in absentia

Meduza reports that Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law restricting the rights of Russians living abroad who face convictions in absentia. The law freezes their bank accounts, blocks the sale of property or vehicles, and cuts off access to government services and online banking. Those targeted also lose access to consular services, including the ability to obtain a foreign travel passport. The measure takes effect immediately upon publication. The State Duma passed it in late July, and parliament speaker Vyacheslav Volodin left little doubt about the law's intent: it targets those he characterized as extremists and traitors who fled to avoid punishment.

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