Putin signed a law on criminal liability for discrediting the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation

Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a law on criminal liability for discrediting the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, calling for sanctions for hire or mercenary motives, as well as assistance in implementing decisions of international organizations in which Russia does not participate. The relevant law was published on April 21 on the official Internet portal of legal information.

According to the draft law, criminal liability is introduced for assistance to international organizations in which the Russian Federation does not participate, for hire or for funds. For its violation, criminal prosecution of officials or military personnel in the form of imprisonment for up to seven years is threatened.

Up to five years in prison can be given to a person for actions calling for sanctions against Russia, which a person commits out of mercenary motives or for hire. Criminal liability for discrediting the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation due to personal hostility or due to receiving financial payments will also be tightened. For any offense, property can also be confiscated.

"This Federal Law comes into force from the date of its official publication," the website says.

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On the same day, Putin signed a law aimed at improving the safety of entertainment events. It is specified that it will enter into force on September 1, 2025.