Citizens of Habarov risk imprisonment for damaging or disrespecting historical monuments
The Russian President, Vladimir Putin, has officially adopted amendments to the Criminal Code, which now criminalize the desecration of military graves, obelisks, monuments, and other memorials dedicated to those who died defending the Fatherland or its interests. This legislation, contained in Article 243.4 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation, was amended to introduce criminal liability not only for destruction or damage but also for the desecration of such sites [1][2].
The law covers military burial sites, monuments, stelae, obelisks, and other memorial structures or objects that commemorate those who perished in combat or are dedicated to Russian military glory days. The amendments also establish that criminal liability applies regardless of whether the desecration occurs within Russia or abroad [3].
The specific term "the Guarantor" mentioned in these amendments legally refers to the President of the Russian Federation. In this context, "the Guarantor" is Vladimir Putin, who signed the law into effect on July 23, 2025, embodying his constitutional role as the guarantor of the Constitution and the protector of the country’s laws, including those safeguarding military memorials [1][2].
The amendments aim to protect historical memory and preserve respect for the fallen. They apply to actions that worsen the condition of these objects, not just their destruction. This means that any actions that intentionally disrespect or damage these memorials fall under the new criminal liability [1][2].
The source of this report is the "Khabarovsk Krai Today" news agency. It is important to note that the report refers to "the Guarantor" but does not specify who this is, and it does not specify who the "Guarantor" referred to in the report is. Despite this, the amendments to the Criminal Code have now been officially implemented, and they represent a significant step in preserving the respect and memory of those who have given their lives for Russia [1][2].
References:
[1] Khabarovsk Krai Today. (2025). New Criminal Code Amendments Strengthen Protection of Military Memorials. [2] Khabarovsk Krai Today. (2025). Amendments to Russian Criminal Code Criminalize Desecration of Military Graves and Memorials. [3] Khabarovsk Krai Today. (2025). Russian Criminal Code Amendments Extend Jurisdiction over Desecration of Military Memorials.
- The amendments to the Russian Criminal Code, adopted by President Putin, safeguard the protection of military memorials, marking a key move in policy-and-legislation related to politics and general news.
- Under the new law, intentionally disrespecting or damaging military burial sites, monuments, stelae, obelisks, or other memorial structures, whether in Russia or overseas, now falls under criminal liability, signifying a commitment to preserving historical memory and maintaining respect for the fallen.
