Support The Moscow Times!
Contribute today

Defense Spending Threatens Social Programs, Kudrin Says

Former Finance Minister Alexei Kudrin told a UN development forum that President Dmitry Medvedev's plan for increased defense spending is their main disagreement, Interfax reported. 

Speaking at the MDG-6 Eastern Europe and Central Asia Forum in Moscow on Monday, Kudrin said that the spending would come at the expense of health and education programs.

Kudrin was fired last month after a public spat with Medvedev that began when he said he wouldn't work under Medvedev should the president become prime minister after March elections.

Read more

PERSONA NON-GRATA

Bulgaria Set to Expel Two Russian Diplomats Over Espionage

Prosecutors had said earlier that the Russians were engaged in espionage but could not be charged due to diplomatic immunity.
RAMPING IT UP

Russia-North Korea Trade Up Despite Sanctions, Reports Say

Pyongyang has been under UN sanctions since 2006 over its missile and nuclear programs.
NOAH'S ARK

Australian Wildlife Finds Sanctuary on Russian Migrant’s Farm

Animals began flocking to Vladimir Balashov's farm after his neighbors' properties burned down on New Year's Eve.
TRADITIONAL VALUES

Russia to Install ‘Spiritual’ Domestic Apps – Vedomosti

From July 1, smartphones will be required to go on sale with pre-installed apps approved by the Russian government.

Independent journalism isn’t dead. You can help keep it alive.

As the only remaining independent, English-language news source reporting from Russia, The Moscow Times plays a critical role in connecting Russia to the world.

Editorial decisions are made entirely by journalists in our newsroom, who adhere to the highest ethical standards. We fearlessly cover issues that are often considered off-limits or taboo in Russia, from domestic violence and LGBT issues to the climate crisis and a secretive nuclear blast that exposed unknowing doctors to radiation.

Please consider making a one-time donation — or better still a recurring donation — to The Moscow Times to help us continue producing vital, high-quality journalism about the world's largest country.