Culture & Customs

Maria Yudina was a profoundly gifted pianist and teacher. And there is a certain lingering myth about her...

How is the Russian economy fairing during the war, and what can we expect in the months ahead?

Tensions continue to rise in Russia after the start of mobilization, leading to more extreme acts of disruption.

New research reveals that Russians buy tea 45% more often than coffee.

"Honestly, they will all die there."

– Kirill, a Russian soldier who has fought in Ukraine
offers a grim prognosis of what awaits the new mobilized recruits.

A regional beauty pageant winner is under investigation by Russian police after singing a patriotic Ukrainian song (on the internet).

“It’s time to prove themselves in a real fight, I can only welcome this desire.”

– Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov, announcing that he was sending his teenage sons to Ukraine

Patriarch Kirill says that Russians can fast-track their way to heaven by fighting in Ukraine.

Russians with questions about Putin's recent mobilization against Ukraine can dial 112 for more information.

Protests erupted across Russia after Putin announces mobilization.

After negotiations, Russia agreed to release 10 foreign prisoners captured during the fighting in Ukraine.

Crimean wedding-goers were arrested and fined after playing a patriotic Ukrainian song at their reception.