Vote in Russian Parliament to Impose Censorship on Criticism of Mercenaries

The Russian State Duma held a vote on Tuesday to approve an amendment that would penalize those found guilty of defaming "volunteer" groups fighting in Ukraine, expanding the scope of a law that imposes censorship on criticisms targeting the Russian armed forces. The amendment is seen as a measure to "protect" fighters from the Wagner Group, a mercenary force leading Russia's campaign in the city of Bakhmut in eastern Ukraine. The bill requires the approval of the Federation Council (the upper house of parliament) before being sent to President Vladimir Putin for final approval. Yevgeny Prigozhin, the founder of Wagner, welcomed the proposals, which represent an expansion of Russia's censorship measures during wartime that were introduced following Moscow's invasion of Ukraine. Under current Russian laws, those convicted of "discrediting" the military can face up to five years in prison, while those guilty of intentionally disseminating false information about the military may be sentenced to up to 15 years in prison.