Russian police have arrested over 800 people in a protest against the Government’s plans of raising retirement age from 60 to 65 for men, and from 55 to 60 for women.
Polling reveals over 80% of Russians are against the arrangement, which has made an impact on President Vladimir Putin’s historically high approval rating. Many Russians say they will not live long enough to receive a pension, given the country’s life expectancy.
Opposition Leader Alexei Navalny has condemned Google for removing advertisements on YouTube that are critical of the pension changes.
Vladimir Putin has defended the pension changes, and says Russia faces hyperinflation and economic collapse if action is not taken.