GeopoliticsNotableConfirmedDeveloping
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Russia bars consular services for Russians convicted in absentia, mirroring Belarus tactic
Meduza English·RU · BY·about 9 hours ago
Belarusian lawyer Dmitry Laevsky, who defended prominent opposition figures, has been convicted and remains in Belarus, asserting his innocence. His colleague Yauhen Pylychanka suggests the verdict signals intensified pressure on the legal profession, deterring defense of political cases. This marks a further consolidation of judicial control over dissent in Belarus.