Russia’s LGBTQ+ community is living in fear following new laws and court rulings, activists say

Associated Press

TALLINN, Estonia (AP) — The LGBTQ+ community in Russia has been under pressure for years, but the situation has worsened since the Kremlin sent troops into Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin argues that the war is a proxy battle with the West, which he says aims to destroy Russia and its “traditional family values” by pushing for LGBTQ+ rights. Any public representations of gay and transgender people are banned. Gender-affirming medical care and changing one’s gender in documents are prohibited. A year ago, Russia’s Supreme Court effectively outlawed any LGBTQ+ activism and exposed anyone involved with it to prosecution. Many left the country but those who stayed have found themselves facing an atmosphere of fear and intimidation.