Russia arrests dozens of protesters marking anniversary of invasion

In contrast with the ceremonies held in Ukraine and by its allies, Russian police
spent Friday arresting dozens of people in various cities who were laying flowers
at different monuments to commemorate Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine that
began one year ago.

Human rights group OVD-Info said that at least three people were arrested in the
capital Moscow after they put flowers on the monument to Ukrainian poet Lesya
Ukrainka, while another 15 were reportedly arrested laying flowers at the monument
to Ukrainian writer Taras Shevchenko in St Petersburg.

According to news site Meduza, several people were also arrested for protesting by
holding up signs saying "I support peace" and "Peace to Ukraine. Soldiers go home"
in various other cities.

Some 4,300 people were detained amid protests during the early stages of the war.
Moscow introduced new hefty fines and jail terms for those found guilty of
criticizing the Russian invasion.