Russian citizens abroad to be protected with the help of the army

The government has submitted to the State Duma a bill proposing to authorize the use of the Russian Armed Forces to protect Russians abroad in the event of their criminal prosecution or arrest by decision of foreign courts

Amendments are being made to Article 6 of the Federal Law “On Citizenship of the Russian Federation” and Article 10 of the Federal Law “On Defense”

The explanatory note to the document states that it was drafted to protect the rights of Russian citizens in the event of their arrest (detention), criminal or other prosecution pursuant to decisions of courts of foreign states empowered by other countries to conduct criminal proceedings without Russia’s participation, and of international judicial bodies whose jurisdiction is not based on an international treaty of the Russian Federation or a resolution of the UN Security Council.

Under Article 8 of the Law “On Security,” measures to protect Russia and its citizens when foreign or international bodies make decisions or take actions that contradict the interests and/or foundations of public order of the Russian Federation are adopted by the president.

The bill develops this provision and, among other things, provides for the possible extraterritorial use of the armed forces to protect Russian citizens by decision of the head of state.

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