INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
over 1,000 times since its introduction in 2021, allows regional authorities to decide whether to abolish lower-tier urban and rural
observers warn the changes could create long-term problems for the Kremlin, including public protests and depopulation in small towns, by
weakening ties between local authorities and residents.State Duma lawmakers passed the bill in its third and final reading with a 318-80
canceled nationwide mayoral elections, put all local officials under the control of governors and ensured every deputy belongs to United
If signed into law by Putin, the reforms will take effect 90 days later.
