WhatsApp may soon face a ban in Russia as it is likely to be included in the list of software from unfriendly countries subject to restrictions, according to Anton Gorelkin, First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Information Policy.
The cost of socially important goods may be temporarily limited to reduce inflation, as proposed by the Center for Macroeconomic Analysis and Short-Term Forecasting (TsMAKP). Experts suggest implementing this measure for three to four months through long-term agreements between producers and consumers, with state assistance and compensation for producers through tax breaks or subsidies.
Fines for drivers who fail to stop at the request of an inspector have sharply increased to 10,000 rubles. The increase aims to deter drunk or drug-impaired drivers who previously found it cheaper to evade traffic police.
The use of VPNs is still allowed despite a new law prohibiting the search for extremist materials and advertising VPNs, according to Sergei Boyarsky, head of the State Duma Committee on Information Policy. He clarified that the law targets those who maliciously seek and consume extremist content, not casual users.
The Central Bank is expected to lower the key rate to 18% at its next meeting, with some analysts predicting it will be lowered to 16% by October. The decision hinges on confirming the stability of positive economic trends, balanced against ongoing pro-inflationary risks and geopolitical tensions.
Limits on family mortgages may be increased to allow families with children to purchase more spacious housing. Senator Olga Epifanova proposes increasing the maximum loan amounts under the preferential program and making repayment terms more flexible to ease the financial burden on young families.
A resident of Krasnodar who reported a deputy’s traffic violation ended up owing him money after he filed a lawsuit to protect his honor and dignity. Despite the official initially being fined, the woman was found guilty and ordered to pay a quarter of a million rubles, and she is now preparing to appeal to the Supreme Court.