Russian government officials have revealed plans for a new bill aimed at confiscating money and property from individuals found guilty of spreading false information related to the ongoing situation in Ukraine. The details of the proposed legislation were announced Saturday by Vyacheslav Volodin, Chairman of the Russian Duma, on Telegram.
According to Volodin, the draft law is designed to “make it possible to confiscate money, valuables or other property used or intended to finance criminal activities against the security of the Russian Federation.” In addition, it specifically addresses Articles 207, 354, and 280 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation, 1996.
The relevant offenses, under this law, would include knowingly spreading false information about the use of the Russian Armed Forces, public incitement of extremist activity, and public actions aimed at discrediting the use of the Russian Armed Forces. Furthermore, it pertains to public calls for actions aimed at violating the integrity of the Russian Federation, aiding international organizations to which Russia is not a party, and advocating for sanctions against Russia and its citizens.
This draft law is seen as a continuation of a series of stringent censorship laws that restrict reporting and media coverage on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Circulating and reporting “false information” about the invasion could result in a prison sentence of up to 15 years. The first cases under this law have already been brought forward.
The draft law is expected to be presented before the State Duma on Monday.
For more details, read the full report on JURIST – News.