Russia - July 2026

On 10 June 2026, President Vladimir Putin signed legislation allowing the government to confiscate property, seize bank funds, and take a range of other punitive measures against Russians abroad for a range of offenses. Effective 1 September, courts may freeze Russian bank accounts and other domestic assets before deciding the underlying case, including for alleged military ‘discrediting’, sanctions advocacy, ‘foreign agent’ violations and involvement with ‘undesirable’ organizations. On 22 July, the State Duma adopted a further package targeting people abroad who were convicted in absentia. It provides for a public register and restrictions on banking, property transactions, electronic state services and consular assistance. Rights advocates described the measures as ‘civic death’. Together, the laws expand Russia’s capacity to penalize anti-war activists, journalists and other critics beyond its borders, and their vague criteria allow for even broader application in the future.  

Sources: ICNL, The Moscow Times (1), The Moscow Times (2)