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Russia's New "Satanism" Law Targets Minorities, Fuels Repression

8/1/2025

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Summary

Story summary

In 2023, Russia introduced a controversial law against "satanism," driven by allegations of "satanic sex orgies" tied to Western influence. Senior MP Andrei Kartapolov deemed it a danger to the nation. This law exemplifies the increasing repression under Putin, particularly against minority groups like the LGBTQ community, amid escalating tensions in Moscow.

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Story summary

In 2023, Russia introduced a controversial law against "satanism," driven by allegations of "satanic sex orgies" tied to Western influence. Senior MP Andrei Kartapolov deemed it a danger to the nation. This law exemplifies the increasing repression under Putin, particularly against minority groups like the LGBTQ community, amid escalating tensions in Moscow.