"Russian Crackdown: Fines and Jail Time for LGBTQ+ Symbols"

Russian authorities have begun penalizing individuals under a Supreme Court ruling that labeled LGBTQ activism as extremism, with at least three people receiving jail time or fines for displaying rainbow-colored items. The crackdown is part of a long-standing campaign against LGBTQ rights in Russia, including laws banning "gay propaganda" and outlawing same-sex marriage. The recent legislation also prohibits gender transitioning procedures and gender-affirming care for transgender people, reflecting President Putin's emphasis on "traditional family values" and opposition to what he views as "perversions" influencing schools.