Yabloko's Exclusion from Elections Signals Darkening Political Climate in Russia
By Editor • August 17, 2026 • 1 min read
The Russian Supreme Court has confirmed the ban of the Yabloko party from September's legislative elections, marking a significant blow to the nation’s dwindling opposition. This ruling effectively removes the only explicitly anti-war party from the electoral process amid an intensified crackdown on dissent related to the Ukraine conflict.
The court's decision followed a lawsuit from a nationalist party that criticized Yabloko for its peace advocacy and alleged foreign funding. As the verdict was announced, police clashed with supporters gathered outside, resulting in the detention of over 60 individuals, including some teenagers.
Yabloko’s leader, Nikolay Rybakov, denounced the police actions as intimidation, while party members and supporters expressed concern about the implications for democracy in Russia. One supporter, Yevgeny Lyapin, emphasized the significance of standing up for democratic values during this oppressive climate.
In an additional blow to the party, Yabloko deputy chairman Lev Shlosberg was sentenced to over 11 years in prison for his anti-war comments, highlighting the perilous position of remaining opposition figures in Russia.
Source: www.france24.com
