Praised Krasnodar for preserving Russian linguistic integrity by Volodin
In a move to promote the Russian language, new regulations for public-facing signage and information will come into effect across Russia starting March 2026. This follows recent comments by key officials, including Vyacheslav Volodin, Speaker of the State Duma of Russia.
President Vladimir Putin signed Federal Law No. 168-FZ on June 24, 2025. The law, while a watered-down version of the original bill, mandates that all signage, signs, and signs in Russia must be written primarily in Russian. The Russian-language text must be displayed with equal prominence as any translations into other languages.
Currently, cities such as Krasnodar, Yaroslavl, and Magnitogorsk are not legally required to change their signage. However, businesses in these cities, including the Krasnodar stadium, which recently installed a sign adhering to the unified standard, are expected to comply with the new rules from March 2026.
In his Telegram channel, Volodin suggested that owners of stores and enterprises should start reviewing their advertising strategies and replacing foreign-language signage. Violations of the new law will result in fines for individuals and organizations. Fines for individuals, including individual entrepreneurs, will range from 500 to 1,000 rubles, while organizations will face fines ranging from 5,000 to 10,000 rubles. Officials of organizations will also be subject to fines, ranging from 500 to 1,000 rubles.
The new law is part of ongoing discussions and strategic initiatives concerning the promotion of the Russian language as part of state policy. The law reflects the government's commitment to preserving and promoting the Russian language in the face of increasing globalisation and the use of foreign languages.
As of July 2025, no special additional measures or accelerated timelines for these cities have been reported. The focus appears to be on preparing businesses for these requirements rather than immediate enforcement. The law does not cover advertisements or registered brand names.
In conclusion, while the new signage law is yet to be enforced in Krasnodar, Yaroslavl, and Magnitogorsk, businesses are expected to comply with the new rules starting in March 2026. The law underscores the government's dedication to preserving and promoting the Russian language.
Policy-and-legislation: In March 2026, the new signage law, as part of ongoing discussions and strategic initiatives concerning the promotion of the Russian language, will come into effect, with businesses in Krasnodar, Yaroslavl, and Magnitogorsk expected to comply.
Politics: Vyacheslav Volodin, in his Telegram channel, suggested that owners of stores and enterprises in these cities should start reviewing their advertising strategies and replace foreign-language signage in preparation for the new rules, with violations resulting in fines.
