Putin targets ordinary citizens in Russia crackdown

In recent years, the Kremlin has intensified its crackdown on dissent, targeting not only prominent opposition figures but also ordinary citizens who oppose the regime. This campaign has extended beyond Russia's borders, affecting hundreds of thousands of Russians who have fled the country due to their opposition to the war in Ukraine or who have been forced out for not supporting it sufficiently. The situation has become increasingly dire, with reports of harassment and violence against exiles, including the assassination of defectors abroad. Investigative journalist Alesya Marokhovskaya faced harassment in the Czech Republic, while the body of Russian defector Maxim Kuzminov was discovered in Spain, both incidents believed to be linked to Kremlin actions. These events highlight the pervasive threat that Russian intelligence services pose to those who oppose the government, even when they are in exile. Many individuals have shared their experiences of abduction and surveillance, often speaking anonymously to avoid repercussions. The targeting of ordinary Russians is alarming, as it reflects a broader strategy by the Kremlin to instill fear and suppress dissent. The international community has largely overlooked these developments, leaving many exiles feeling vulnerable and isolated. Human rights activists are working to support these individuals, but the scale of repression continues to grow. As the war in Ukraine persists, the Kremlin's dragnet appears to be expanding, with ordinary citizens caught in the crossfire. This situation raises critical questions about the safety of exiles and the responsibility of the global community to address these human rights violations.