Russia Places Former Prime Minister on National Terrorism List | Moscow Crackdown Update
Russia’s financial monitoring agency, Rosfinmonitoring, has placed former Prime Minister Mikhail Kasyanov and well-known economist Sergey Guriev on the country’s national terrorism list. Both men have been living in exile and are widely known for criticizing Moscow’s military actions in Ukraine.
Why Was Kasyanov Added to the Terrorism List?
In recent years, Kasyanov has been one of the strongest voices opposing the Kremlin’s leadership.
Accusations from Moscow
According to Russian authorities, Kasyanov is accused of:
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Spreading information and views that “damage” the government
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Condemning Russia’s involvement in the Ukraine war
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Being part of the Anti-War Committee of Russia, a group formed in 2022 at the start of the conflict
In 2023, he had already been categorized as a Russian citizen “working with foreign interests” in a way that could harm the state. Now, he has been moved to the terrorism list.
Kasyanov served as Russia’s Prime Minister from 2000 to 2004. After leaving office, he joined the opposition and later led the political party PARNAS, which was dissolved by the Supreme Court in 2023.
Sergey Guriev Also Added to the List
An Exiled Economist
Sergey Guriev, a prominent economist, led the New Economic School between 2004 and 2013 before fleeing the country.
Accusations Against Guriev
Moscow claims he:
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Spoke publicly against the war in Ukraine
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Worked with groups viewed as serving “foreign interests”
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Shared opinions that strongly criticize the government
What Happens to People on Russia’s Terrorism List?
Once someone is added to this list, several strict measures immediately follow:
Immediate Penalties
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All financial activities are restricted
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Bank accounts are frozen
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Any property inside Russia is seized
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They are blocked from using financial services or moving funds
These actions are part of Moscow’s wider crackdown on political opponents and experts who publicly oppose the war or criticize state policies.
Concerns from Human Rights Organizations
International groups, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International, have previously criticized Russia for using the terrorism list to silence critics. They argue that the process lacks transparency and is often used as a political tool.
