Russia’s New ‘Foreign Agent’ Tax Law: A Blueprint for Oppression and Economic Pressure

In a move that starkly illustrates the Kremlin's tightening authoritarian grip, Russian lawmakers passed a bill imposing harsh new taxes on individuals and organizations branded as “foreign agents.” This legislation, which is poised for President Vladimir Putin's signature, is more than just a fiscal adjustment—it is a blatant assault on political freedom cloaked in economic terms. Why Targeting 'Foreign Agents' Is a Threat Beyond Russia’s Borders The law mandates a staggering 30% income tax rate for those labeled foreign agents, stripping them of previously available tax breaks. To put this in perspective, typical Russian residents pay between 13% and 22%....