DISINFO: Protests in Russia are illegal and resemble the Capitol attack
SUMMARY
In Washington the Parliament was captured. What are they doing with these people? From 15 to 25 years of prison as for domestic terrorism. Well, what are they? They also came out with political slogans. But out of the framework of the law. Why should everything be allowed outside the framework of the law? Not. Moreover, in no case should minors be pushed forward. This is what terrorists do when they drive women and children ahead of them.
[Context: protest rallies on January 23rd, 2021 in Russia’s major cities]
RESPONSE
An attempt by Pro-Kremlin media to downplay the protests in Russia and draw comparisons with the US Capitol attack on January 23, 2021. However, the comparison is not correct. According to Article 31 of the Russian Constitution:
"citizens of the Russian Federation shall have the right to assemble peacefully, without weapons, hold rallies, meetings and demonstrations, marches and pickets".
No use of any arms by protesters was noticed during the rallies on January 23, 2021. Nor did the protesters in Russia break into any government building.
Some of the protesters who attacked the US Capitol were carrying weapons. They also smashed doors and windows and broke into the building. Approximately 40 individuals have been arrested and charged in Superior Court with offences including, but not limited to, unlawful entry and firearms-related crimes.
Another cliché accusation, advanced by pro-Kremlin disinformation media to discredit the Russian protests, concerns the massive participation of minors in the rallies. In reality, different age groups took part in the rallies.
See more about the whataboutism propaganda method: the Kremlin regularly attempts to dismiss its critics by accusing them of the same offense (or worse), without actually addressing the criticism in question.
See more disinformation cases on Russia's protests 2021.