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Matthew Luxmoore

Jun 12, 2019 • 11 tweets • 6 min read • Read on X

Several hundred protesters have paralysed part of central Moscow today for an unsanctioned march in support of press freedoms, despite yesterday’s release of arrested journalist Ivan #Golunov. They’re demanding prosecution of those who ordered his arrest on bogus drug charges

It’s very peaceful so far despite the threat of detentions and worse for participation in an illegal gathering. But considering it’s a public holiday & thousands of tourists are out, it could get very messy if the National Guard patrolling the area begins a clampdown

At least one person has just been detained by police, as the crowd begins moving from Chistye Prudy park en route through the city centre

Police have blocked off a whole section of the city centre including this street leading to Kitai Gorod and Red Square. Marchers have skirted the area but there are angry people demanding access to their homes and offices #Golunov

This time 2 years ago anti-government protesters were involved in a surreal clash with historian reconstructors staging their annual festival in central Moscow. Both are you in force again today

The march against arbitrary arrest in Moscow has ground to a halt not far from police headquarters as a line of National Guard officers prevents protesters from continuing. There are shouts of “disgrace!” and “fascists!”, as detentions continue.

Continuous detentions at the Moscow march against arbitrary arrest today. This riot van just tried to break through the crowd, luckily caused no injuries. #Golunov

Pensioner Galina Petrova: “#Golunov was not a unique case, but his arrest was the final straw. They don’t treat us like citizens anymore”

Following dispersal of the unsanctioned rally against arbitrary arrest in Moscow, a much smaller crowd has gathered near police headquarters on Petrovka Street. Detentions continue - over 100 now

Let’s hope they don’t set these guys against the protesters. They performing in a history festival 100 yards from where marchers for #Golunov are being dispersed by police

This is what remains of today’s protest against arbitrary arrest and press freedom in Moscow: A group of activists mocking earlier police chants and shouting “Dear citizens, please do not get in the way of abuse of power” #Russia

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