"Russia's Opposition Bloodied, Press Freedom Attacked, and Mixed Signals on Ukraine War Support"

Leading members of the Russian opposition have issued a declaration calling for the withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukraine, the restoration of internationally recognized borders, and the prosecution of war criminals. The declaration also calls for the release of political prisoners and prisoners of war, the return of abducted Ukrainian children, and expresses solidarity with anti-Putin and anti-war Russians. While the declaration has been praised by some, tensions between the Russian opposition and Ukrainian patriots remain, and the opposition itself is plagued by internecine squabbling. However, the declaration may prove to be an essential first step towards a united and effective opposition.