In force · in force from 21 April 2025 (the whole law)
90-ФЗ of 21 April 2025 «On amendments to the Criminal Code and to Article 31 of the Criminal Procedure Code of the Russian Federation»
Who is affected
People accused of 'discrediting' the army, calling for sanctions or assisting foreign bodies' decisions, if investigators claim this was done 'for gain or for hire'.
Who is not affected
Without the 'gain or hire' element, penalties under these articles are not changed by this law.
What changes
- Calls for sanctions 'for gain or hire': new part 2 of art. 284.2, up to 5 years.
- Assisting foreign bodies' decisions 'for gain or hire': new part 2 of art. 284.3, 2-7 years.
- 'Discrediting' the army 'for gain or hire' is placed in part 2 of art. 280.3.
- Property confiscation is possible for these offences with a gain motive (art. 104.1).
What to do now
- If you are paid for publications or talks, discuss with a lawyer how this could be framed in a case.
- Keep confiscation in mind: sort out property in Russia in advance and with a lawyer.
What is not yet clear
The law does not specify what investigators treat as 'gain' or 'hire' (a fee, donations, a grant).