While Moscow slept, Khabarovsk, Komsomolsk-on-Amur, and other cities across Khabarovsk Krai saw what were probably the largest spontaneous protests in the modern history of the Russian Far East. ⠀ There were the famous rallies in Vladivostok in 2008–2009, but this seems even bigger. In Khabarovsk alone, estimates range from 10,000 to 40,000 people. That would be like an unauthorized rally of a million people in Moscow. ⠀ The situation is completely unique. People came out in support of the arrested governor. Their demands are simple, fair, and clear: we elected him. If he is guilty of something, then show us the evidence and let him be tried here. ⠀ Everyone understands what is happening: Putin’s approval rating in Khabarovsk Krai is falling, the “nationwide vote” failed there, and United Russia lost the last election. And Governor Furgal himself won against Putin’s candidate. ⠀ And now they are jailing him—in retaliation. He has been accused of murders and involvement in an organized criminal group 15 years ago. But here is the question: why were they silent for 15 years? How was Furgal able to serve for 11 years as a deputy in the State Duma (the lower house of Russia’s parliament)? ⠀ Why did they start going after him only after he defeated Putin in the region? Why was he rushed to Moscow? Why has no evidence of guilt been presented? ⠀ And do you know what slogan was the most popular today, the one heard across Far Eastern cities? ⠀ Putin is a thief. Putin is an organized criminal group himself. ⠀ The police did not intervene—they understood that it was better not to argue with such a massive crowd. I am proud of my fellow citizens who took to the streets today, demanding fair elections, a just trial, and their right to choose their own government. ⠀ Komsomolsk-on-Amur ❤️ Khabarovsk❤️ Far East❤️