# How Russian dissidents are being punished by both Russia and Europe

https://mins.news/en/item/24340

- Al Jazeera, 2026-08-17 15:54 UTC
- World
- Original: https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2026/8/17/how-russian-dissidents-are-being-punished-by-both-russia-and-europe?traffic_source=rss

> A new law signed by Vladimir Putin restricts consular services for Russians convicted in absentia in political cases, potentially preventing them from renewing passports. As European countries also make residency renewals and asylum applications harder for Russians who opposed the invasion of Ukraine, dissidents face pressure from both sides.

## Related coverage

- [Exiled Russian politician: Public is turning against Putin’s war](https://mins.news/en/video/22479) — CNN, 2026-08-14