Russian-backed Espionage Ring in the UK

A group of amateur operatives, including a beautician and a painter-decorator, orchestrated espionage operations for the Kremlin in the UK, targeting high-profile dissidents and sensitive military sites. Their activities included honeytraps, kidnappings, and murder plots. The group was part of a larger Russian-backed spy ring operating from Great Yarmouth, with their handler known as 'Mad Max.' The group was involved in chaotic covert missions, including surveilling journalists critical of Russia and planning to influence foreign political climates. The group's activities were uncovered in one of the UK's largest espionage investigations, with over 200,000 messages and spy equipment seized. The defendants will be sentenced in May.

Chinese American scholar convicted of acting as a foreign agent for China

Chinese American scholar convicted of acting as a foreign agent for China, gathering information on dissidents and feeding it to the Chinese government. He faces up to 25 years in prison.

Russian police crackdown on Navalny memorial events

Russian police crackdown on dissidents honoring the memory of Alexei Navalny, opposition leader who died in prison. Party raided, man beaten for anti-Putin sign, women detained at cemetery. Navalny's widow attends memorial in Berlin. Demonstrations held in Hague and Warsaw in Navalny's memory.

Anti-regime activists in Iran celebrate death of President Raisi

Anti-regime activists in Iran celebrate the death of President Ebrahim Raisi, defying regime's attempts to organize mourning events. Dissidents express relief and joy over his demise, highlighting Raisi's oppressive regime and human rights violations. The regime faces challenges in controlling public response and turnout for Raisi's funeral.

Chinese Government's Repression of Dissidents Abroad

Chinese dissidents living abroad face threats and harassment from the Chinese government, including surveillance, interrogation of family members, and online attacks. Some dissidents have chosen to speak out publicly despite the risks involved.

Chinese Government Harassment of Dissidents Abroad

Chinese citizens living abroad face harassment and threats from the Chinese government for criticizing their policies. Some dissidents have chosen to go public despite the risks involved.