Russia prepares for opposition protest in Moscow

Security is being stepped up ahead of an opposition rally in Moscow on Saturday expected to draw 30,000 people.

After days of protests since the election on Sunday, Russian authorities have relaxed the rule allowing only demonstrations of 300. However, protesters have been warned that marching is still banned.

One Moscow resident said authorities have blocked roads around the square where the rally will take place because they are scared of the people.

Another man said the 50,000 police and 2,000 paramilitaries already on duty showed a lack of trust between the government and ordinary Russians.

There continue to be accusations of fraud during the election directed at Prime Minister Vladimir Putin’s United Russia Party, who still control the Duma, despite a drop of almost 15 per cent.

Outside the Christ the Saviour cathedral in Moscow, topless Ukrainian women held a protest, adding their voices to the dissent.

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