Putin Imposes Restrictions on Convicted Russians Abroad

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law that imposes restrictions on Russians who are abroad and have not served their criminal or administrative sentences. The document has been published on the official legal information portal.

The law pertains to individuals who have been convicted, in particular, for failing to comply with the requirements of a "foreign agent," for public calls to violate the territorial integrity of Russia, for "discrediting" the Russian Armed Forces, for calls for anti-Russian sanctions, or for participating in the activities of "undesirable" organizations.

The restrictions will only apply if the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs confirms that the individual is abroad and is evading the imposed sentence. The law specifies 14 restrictions, including a ban on registering as an individual entrepreneur or self-employed, as well as on registering rights to real estate and vehicles.

Additionally, they will be denied loans and credit, access to electronic state and municipal services, as well as obtaining licenses and accreditations. Previously issued documents may be suspended.

The law also prohibits banks from providing online banking services to these individuals: they will not be able to make money transfers via mobile apps or websites, and their funds and properties may be frozen.