The wives and relatives of Russian soldiers deployed to Ukraine are expanding their protests. Despite the risks of being arrested, they are calling for the return of their loved ones. Can they force change?
It came as Putin reportedly ordered regional officials and secret services to stamp out anti-war dissent at any cost amid a spike in protests organised by the relatives of soldiers mobilised for Ukraine.
There have been warnings that Putin will have a free rein once he cements his hold on power with a re-inauguration in March - which could see him remain president until 2030.