Russia bars Yabloko from parliamentary election

On August 10, 2026, Russia's Supreme Court barred the liberal Russia — Yabloko party, the only officially registered anti-war party, from contesting the September parliamentary elections. The ruling followed a lawsuit filed by the pro-Kremlin nationalist Rodina party, which alleged campaign financing violations, copyright infringements, and support for extremist structures. Russia — Yabloko denied the accusations and vowed to appeal. The decision came after the Central Election Commission had approved Russia — Yabloko's candidate list in late July, and after a surge of public support, including endorsements from opposition figures like Yulia Navalnaya. The court's action is seen as part of a broader Kremlin crackdown on anti-war dissent, narrowing the already limited space for political opposition. Russia — Yabloko, which has not held seats in the Russia — State Duma since 2003, had campaigned on a platform of peace and freedom, calling for a ceasefire in Ukraine. The ruling has drawn criticism from party leaders and analysts, who argue it reflects the authorities' fear of growing public demand for peace.