More than 80 supporters of the Yabloko party were detained by police outside the Supreme Court in Moscow as the court confirmed the party's exclusion from upcoming State Duma elections.

On August 17, 2026, Russia’s Supreme Court upheld a ruling that bars the liberal Yabloko party from participating in this year’s State Duma elections. Following the decision, police detained more than 80 people who had gathered outside the court building on Povarskaya Street to support the party. The event followed a previous hearing on August 10, where supporters also gathered to protest the party's removal from the ballot.

Detentions and Court Procedures

Supporters who arrived at the courthouse reported strict access controls, noting that only journalists with pre-arranged passes were permitted entry. Those without credentials were instructed to use a specific entrance and verify their identity via telephone. Police presence increased significantly between the August 10 and August 17 hearings, with attendees reporting the use of multiple police vans to transport detainees. According to reports, detainees aged 18 and older were released from police stations within a few hours, while minors were required to wait for adult relatives to collect them. Some supporters were detained in areas surrounding the courthouse, including a nearby park, after being redirected by riot police.

Supporter Perspectives

Young volunteers who participated in the demonstrations described their motivation as a desire to support the party’s antiwar platform, which campaigns under the slogan “For Peace.” Many attendees expressed frustration with the political climate, citing concerns over the suppression of political opposition and the impact of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Despite the court's ruling, some supporters indicated they intend to remain involved in political activities, including upcoming single-mandate district races.