Russian activists stagger under Kremlin crackdown

Russia — It’s no secret the protest movement here is floundering. Pumped up with enthusiasm and electrified with energy as recently as a year ago, Russia’s opposition has been hobbled by accusations of inaction in the year since President Vladimir Putin’s re-election, during which the authorities have jailed anti-Kremlin demonstrators and charged key activists with crimes. Despite the movement’s loss of momentum and dwindling numbers at public demonstrations, however, some ordinary Russians are continuing to hit the streets. “It’s an opportunity to make an appearance, to be seen and heard,…

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