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Putin Signs Amendments to 'Foreign Agents' Law

RFE/RL

   MOSCOW - Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed into law
   legislation that human rights watchdogs and opposition politicians have
   said will undermine democratic processes.

   The legislation, which came into force on December 30, included a
   series of amendments to the controversial law on "foreign agents" to
   allow individuals and public entities to be recognized as "foreign
   agents" if they are considered to be engaged in political activities
   "in the interests of a foreign state."

   Entities that have received the label will be required to report their
   activities and face financial audits.

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