All Russian citizens over 18 are eligible for the Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccine, but uptake is low, with only 3.81% of the population having received at least one dose by mid-March. Vaccine hesitancy is high, with only 30% willing to get vaccinated, citing concerns about side effects and waiting for final data. Authorities are incentivizing vaccination through perks and easy access at polyclinics and mobile centers. Sputnik V, made from two human adenoviruses, is 91.6% effective. Side effects are generally mild and short-lived. Foreigners in Russia face mixed policies on vaccine eligibility, with some able to get vaccinated under certain conditions.

The article explores the experience of getting vaccinated with Sputnik V in Russia, highlighting personal accounts, public sentiment, and logistical aspects. Despite the vaccine being free and widely available, only 2% of Russians have received both doses. The article discusses the side effects experienced by different age groups, the role of online communities in sharing information, and the slow progress of the vaccination campaign. It also addresses the reluctance of Russians to get vaccinated, citing fear of side effects and waiting for final research results. The article includes expert opinions and mentions various incentives introduced by authorities to encourage vaccination.

Yegor Yemelyanov, a former captain of the Belarusian police, resigned due to his opposition to the government's handling of protests following the elections. He faced detention after his resignation but was later acquitted. Yemelyanov's decision inspired some colleagues to follow suit, although management accused him of being influenced by Europe. He expressed fear for his future under the current regime but remains hopeful for peaceful and fair elections. Yemelyanov plans to pursue a career in fitness.

In Russia, domestic violence remains a critical issue with insufficient legal protections for victims. The case of Elena Verba, murdered by her husband Sergey Gusyatnikov, highlights the consequences of Russia's 2017 law partially decriminalizing domestic violence. Despite high-profile cases and alarming statistics, the country lacks dedicated laws to protect women. New legislation is being considered to address this gap, but faces opposition from pro-family and religious organizations. Advocates argue that the current legal framework fails to prevent violence and protect victims, calling for comprehensive reforms.

A new Russian internet law, effective from November 1, aims to protect the country's internet, 'Runet,' from cyber-attacks by allowing isolation from the global network. Critics argue it will increase government censorship, jeopardizing free speech and information freedom. The law mandates special equipment for internet providers to filter and reroute traffic, with significant implementation costs. While some justify the law as a protective measure, others, including Human Rights Watch and Reporters Without Borders, warn it could lead to unprecedented levels of internet control and blackouts.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan are meeting in Sochi to discuss the Syrian conflict, particularly the establishment of a 'safe zone' along the Turkey-Syria border and the future of Kurdish forces in the region. Experts suggest that Russia is filling the vacuum left by the US withdrawal, and the talks may result in a new status quo in Syria, including Turkish control of a border zone. The discussions also cover the Syrian constitutional committee, the situation in Idlib, and the potential for joint operations against jihadist groups. The cooperation between Moscow and Ankara is seen as crucial for resolving the Syrian crisis, despite the risks of population displacement and regional tensions.

Elon Musk showcased his Russian language skills by responding to an invitation from Krasnodar entrepreneurs who used a billboard and a video to invite him to a local business forum. The entrepreneurs' video, which included a parody song, aimed to persuade Musk to visit, but it remains unclear if he will accept the invitation. Musk's response in Russian was a playful acknowledgment of their efforts.

The government of Kazakhstan announced that it will pay off debts for half-a-million citizens as a one-time action to aid the country's poorest. This follows a presidential decree by President Kasym-Jomart Tokayev and targets orphans, large families, the disabled, and socially vulnerable families. The state will use budgetary funds to repay up to 105 billion Kazakh tenge (€245m) in loans and arrears, with a cap of 300,000 KZT (€700) per person.

Hundreds were detained in Moscow during a protest demanding fair elections, with prominent opposition activist Lyubov Sobol among those arrested. The police crackdown, deemed unconstitutional by experts, mirrors past protests and highlights ongoing tensions between authorities and citizens demanding respect and democratic rights. Despite warnings, thousands indicated their intent to protest, challenging the prevention of opposition candidates in local elections.