Putin Accommodates Xi Jinping: Anti-Cult Repression of Falun Gong in Moscow

In a disturbing development of international relations, Russia seems to be increasingly aligning itself with China, at the expense of civil and religious liberties within its borders. This relationship has become particularly evident in the recent repression of the Falun Gong movement, culminating in the arrest of a woman and the detention of three other practitioners on May 3rd.

Economic and Military Dependence: A Pact of Necessity

Since the start of the aggression against Ukraine, Russia has often been described as a satellite state of China. This dependency has become increasingly evident not only on the economic front but also in military supplies. In exchange for Beijing's support, Moscow seems ready to replicate China's repressive policies against dissident religious and spiritual groups.

The Case of Falun Gong: From Praised to Persecuted

Falun Gong, a spiritual movement that combines meditation and Qigong practices, has never posed a threat to Russia. In fact, for years Russian media spoke favorably of it, praising the health benefits for practitioners. However, the situation drastically changed under Chinese pressure. As early as 2008, some key Falun Gong texts were declared "extremist," but the movement's activities continued relatively undisturbed until recent times.

In 2020, seven organizations related to Falun Gong were declared "undesirable" in Russia. This label, unlike that of "extremist," did not completely prevent organizations from operating. However, after the war in Ukraine began in 2022, Russian legislation changed, effectively equating "undesirable" organizations with "extremist" ones.

The Intervention of Special Forces

On May 3rd, Russian special forces raided the homes of several Falun Gong practitioners in Moscow. Natalia Minenkova was arrested as the "leader" of an "undesirable" organization, and three other practitioners were detained as witnesses. According to the state agency RIA Novosti, they are accused of much more serious crimes, including attempting to organize color revolutions in Russia and China with the support of the U.S. State Department.

Arrests and Detentions: A Climate of Fear

On April 16th, a woman was arrested by the FSB in Pyatigorsk for possessing and distributing Falun Gong publications. On May 4th, a judge from the Tushinsky district court in Moscow confirmed Minenkova's detention for one month and twenty-five days, pending further investigations.

The Influence of FECRIS

It is not only the Russian government that supports the repression of Falun Gong. Russian and European anti-cult groups, part of the international federation FECRIS, have expressed support for the bloody repression of the movement in China and called for tougher measures elsewhere. Some Western branches of FECRIS have publicly denied the accusations of organ harvesting from Falun Gong practitioners in China, despite two European Parliament resolutions stating otherwise.

A Call for International Vigilance

These events raise serious concerns about religious freedom and human rights in Russia. The international community must closely monitor these dynamics and remain ready to defend the values and principles of a free society. It is crucial not to underestimate the impact of anti-cult movements and religious repression and to work together to prevent possible negative consequences.

Under China's influence, Russia seems to be embarking on a dangerous path where the repression of religious minorities becomes a bargaining chip in international relations. It is imperative that the global community responds firmly to protect the fundamental rights of all people, regardless of geopolitical pressures.

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