State Duma Approves Bill on Using Army Abroad

The State Duma approved in the first reading a bill granting the president the right to use the army to protect Russians abroad

The decision on possible “extraterritorial” use of the armed forces will be made by the president.

As noted by Faridaily, the purpose of the law is not entirely clear, since the president already has the authority to “take measures” to protect citizens if foreign or international bodies adopt decisions contrary to Russia’s interests (Article 8 of Federal Law No. 390 “On Security”). The explanatory note says the new bill develops this provision further.

Lawyers interviewed by Kommersant suggested the new norm could formalize the escort or protection of “shadow fleet” vessels under sanctions. Faridaily also cites two more examples — a possible arrest of children’s ombudswoman Maria Lvova-Belova under an ICC warrant, or prosecution of Russian military personnel under a potential Council of Europe tribunal.

@meduzalive