Russian Scientists Flee Amidst Growing State Control and Pseudoscience

RURussian Federation|

A significant exodus of scientists from Russia continues as state pressure and ideological control increase, according to the independent publication Novaya Gazeta Europe, which estimates that at least 2,500 researchers have left the country since February 2022. The exodus reflects a broader deterioration in the scientific community, where authorities prioritize pseudoscientific contributions aligned with the Kremlin over genuine research, exacerbated by the regime's tightening grip on academic freedom.

Irina Rastorgujewa reports that on February 8, 2025, the Russian Academy of Sciences organized a dictation titled "Science in the Name of Victory," aimed at glorifying Soviet achievements in World War II, as President Vladimir Putin promotes the decade of science and technology from 2022 to 2031. This initiative, with participation from prominent academic figures like Viktor Sadovnichy, reflects a trend where scientifically unverified notions are being propagated in educational systems, overshadowing substantive scientific progress.

In this climate of repression, real scientific endeavors suffer neglect while the government invests in questionable projects, including the development of smart textiles and nanorobots. As Russia faces increasing isolation, the scientific community fears losing entire fields of expertise essential for advancement.

Weekly Newsletter

Loading...

More from Russian Federation

Two Bridge Collapses Kill Seven and Derail Trains in Russia

In a tragic series of bridge collapses in Russia, at least seven people were confirmed dead and numerous others injured following incidents in the Bryansk and Kursk regions. The first collapse occurred on Saturday night when a bridge fell onto railway tracks, derailing a train and injuring over 30 individuals, including children, according to Bryansk Governor Aleksandr Bogomaz. He stated the accident was caused by "illegal interference," as reported by Moscow Railways. Shortly thereafter, another bridge collapse in the Zheleznogorsk district of the Kursk region coincided with freight train activity, resulting in further chaos. Governor Alexander Khinshtein of Kursk confirmed that debris from the bridge landed on the road below, with immediate rescue efforts underway. These incidents have raised concerns regarding rail safety and infrastructure integrity amid ongoing scrutiny in the region bordering Ukraine. Local authorities are investigating the causes and will implement necessary measures to prevent further occurrences.
RURussian Federation

Ukraine Launches Major Drone Attack on Russian Military Base in Siberia

In a significant escalation of hostilities, Ukraine conducted a large-scale drone operation against Russia, targeting a military base in the Irkutsk region of Siberia on June 1, 2025. The attack involved Ukrainian remote-piloted aircraft striking a military unit in the village of Sridni, marking the first such offensive in Siberia, as confirmed by the regional governor. According to the Kyiv Independent and various Ukrainian media outlets, the operation resulted in the destruction of over 40 Russian aircraft, including advanced bombers such as the Tu-95 and Tu-22M3, as well as at least one A-50 surveillance aircraft. These strikes purportedly targeted airfields in Olenya and Belaya, indicating a strategic effort to diminish Russia's long-range striking capabilities. The operation, named "Pavutyna" or "Web," reflects Ukraine’s reliance on drone technology given the imbalance in missile arsenal between the two countries. Meanwhile, preparation for upcoming peace talks in Istanbul highlights ongoing diplomatic efforts; Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed a delegation would attend, aiming for a ceasefire and addressing humanitarian issues.
RURussian Federation

Bridge Collapse Leads to Fatal Train Derailment in Russia

A tragic incident occurred late Saturday night in Russia's Bryansk region when a passenger train derailed following the collapse of a bridge onto the railway tracks. At least seven individuals lost their lives, and around 30 others, including two children, were hospitalized with injuries, according to regional governor Aleksandr Bogomaz's report on Telegram. The derailment took place at approximately 10:44 PM local time, between the Pilshino and Vygonichi stations. Moscow Railways has indicated that the incident was the result of "illegal interference" in transport operations. The firm confirmed that the crash did not disrupt other train services in the area. Photographic evidence released by Russian authorities shows significant damage to the bridge and the surrounding vehicles, as emergency personnel worked throughout the night to assist victims. The affected site is located around 100 kilometers from the Ukrainian border, intensifying concerns over safety in the region.
RURussian Federation
All Russian Federation News ->