The government has extended a number of measures to support businesses in border regions.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

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Document

Resolution of December 17, 2025 No. 2046

The government will continue to provide support to affected organizations and individual entrepreneurs in the Belgorod, Bryansk, and Kursk regions in 2026. A resolution has been signed introducing the necessary amendments to the state program "Economic Development and Innovative Economy."

This involves providing subsidies to organizations and entrepreneurs to restore and maintain operations, and concessional loans to small and medium-sized businesses for working capital and investment purposes. These loans are available for up to 50 million rubles and have terms of up to six years.

The funds will be allocated to the regions as part of the federal project "Special Short-Term Support Measures for Small and Medium-Sized Entrepreneurs." The 2026 federal budget allocates approximately 4.5 billion rubles for this purpose.

The signed document amends Government Resolution No. 316 of April 15, 2014.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Dmitry Grigorenko: The government is becoming a key platform for addressing the issue of regulating artificial intelligence.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Government of the Russian Federation – Government of the Russian Federation –

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A meeting on the regulation of artificial intelligence technology was held at the Government Coordination Centre, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Chief of the Government Staff Dmitry Grigorenko. Representatives from the government, business, and industry associations participated. The meeting discussed various legislative initiatives aimed at regulating AI and the risks of adopting or rejecting certain proposals.

The need to codify key standards regarding the use of AI in specific areas (AI quality and safety, AI training datasets, liability for AI errors, the use of Russian and foreign AI models, etc.) and related issues were discussed. Among these issues, the following were raised: is it necessary to introduce the concept of AI and define the liability of developers and users of this technology at the legislative level? Is it necessary to define the areas in which the use of AI is or is not permitted? Is it necessary to introduce regulatory requirements for AI systems and their quality assurance by the state? In what areas is the use of sovereign Russian AI critical, and is the use of foreign models permissible for certain tasks?

Dmitry Grigorenko noted the importance of moving from developing disparate proposals to developing a unified approach and a systemic set of measures. Following the meeting, the Deputy Prime Minister instructed organizations and interested participants to submit proposals for AI regulation to the Ministry of Digital Development by January 20. The submitted proposals will be analyzed by the Ministry of Digital Development and the Analytical Center under the Government by the end of February. Following the evaluation, the Ministry of Digital Development will submit proposals for technology regulation to the Government by March 13, 2026.

"Our task in regulating artificial intelligence is to find a balance. On the one hand, it's important to ensure the safety of citizens and prevent potential risks from the use of AI. For example, cases where AI could be used to commit a crime. On the other hand, regulation shouldn't hinder the development of innovation. Overly strict regulations could slow the pace of AI adoption, and we recognize this risk. To ensure that IT companies in Russia can continue to develop cutting-edge technologies, including AI, it's important to maintain a favorable environment for them. We should act selectively and gradually: introduce regulations where the cost of AI error is too high, while maintaining freedom for technological development," said Dmitry Grigorenko.

The Deputy Prime Minister also emphasized that introducing regulations for the use of AI is a pressing issue currently being discussed globally. Countries' approaches to regulating the technology vary. Some countries (e.g., Kazakhstan) are pursuing a comprehensive AI law that details the requirements for the technology, defines the responsibilities of developers and users, and regulates its use in certain areas. Other countries (e.g., China) are introducing targeted requirements, such as those for the quality and security of systems and applying certification for AI solutions, but are not restricting the use of AI. However, a general trend is emerging: the development of this technology is no longer ignored by governments.

The meeting on AI regulation, chaired by Dmitry Grigorenko, is essentially becoming the starting point for a comprehensive discussion on AI regulation. Notably, the process involves not only government agencies but also leading Russian IT companies. During the discussion, business representatives also presented reports and shared their opinions on specific proposals for regulating the technology.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

From 34th to 6th place: Polytechnic University strengthened its position in the "TOP 1000 University Startups" ranking.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

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Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University was ranked among the top universities in the 2025 annual "TOP 1000 University Startups" ranking, which is conducted as part of the University Technological Entrepreneurship Platform of the federal "Technologies" project of the national "Efficient and Competitive Economy" project.

Startups from students, employees, and graduates of higher education institutions in the last three years are eligible to participate in the competition.

In terms of the number of projects among the top 35 universities, Polytechnic University ranks sixth with 21 projects. In 2024, the university ranked 34th (nine projects).

The winners included students from various SPbPU institutes: PISh "Digital Engineering" (13 projects), IMMiT (3 projects), IBSiB (2 projects), IKNK (1 project), ISI (1 project), IPMET (1 project).

Maxim Gorbuk, a student at the Higher School of Computer Technology and Information Systems at the Institute of Computer Science and Culture (IKNSC), scored the highest score among polytechnic students—78.59. His project, "MedAI: A Mobile App for Vaccinating Children Receiving Immunosuppressive Therapy," placed 57th among the competition's winners.

Three projects by Elina Goricheva and two by Georgy Shkolnik made it into the rankings. Both participants are students from the Higher School of Technological Entrepreneurship (PSTE) at St. Petersburg Polytechnic University. A total of 40 projects were submitted to the competition by the HSTE.

SPbPU's high ranking is the result of systematic efforts to develop and promote student entrepreneurship (the Polytechnic University's Technological Entrepreneurship Model was among the top three at the Startup Summit Awards — Ed.), which aligns with the Concept of Technological Development of the Russian Federation until 2030.

Winners of the competition from Polytechnic

Advanced Engineering School "Digital Engineering":

Elina Goricheva, DeepSelf, SmartMatch Assist, and Movent projects; Georgy Shkolnik, "Integration of a Set of Artificial Intelligence Technologies into the Educational and Career Guidance Process" and "All-Russian Engineering Day" projects; Yaroslav Nikitin, "Cherdak" project; Denis Romanovsky, "Yoy-Kod" project; Anton Zykov, "Development of a Composite Ceramic Composition for 3D Printing of Casting Molds" project; Anton Aitov, "Embedded Wearable IoT System for Smart Clothing with Adaptive Functions" project; Nikita Korobov, "Embedded Onboard Module of Autonomous and Energy-Efficient Navigation for Aircraft-Type UAVs" project; Timofey Sokolov, "RavNer – a Digital Twin for Creating a Highly Efficient Domestic Hydrogen Cell" project; Daria Kuzmenkova, "AR Projector for Teaching and Entertaining Children on the Road in a Car" project; postgraduate student Anastasia Tsytsyna, "Embedded Wearable IoT System for Smart Clothing with Adaptive Functions" project; "Software for optimizing the performance of graphic editors (accelerating calculations when performing rendering and real-time tasks)."

Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport:

Mikhail Gnibeda, "E-Cigarette Sensor" project — a system for monitoring air quality in public places; Artem Yurikov, "Autonomous Vessel for Cleaning the Surface of Water Bodies from Microplastics and Cyanobacteria" project; Semyon Zimin, "Morf.VisionAI" project.

Institute of Biomedical Systems and Biotechnologies:

Hayk Akopyan, project "Development of a platform for preliminary assessment of the economic benefits of a construction tender", Alexander Barashkov, project "Perimeter protection system for the IGLA facility".

Institute of Computer Science and Cybersecurity:

Maxim Gorbuk, project "MedAI – a mobile application for vaccinating children receiving immunosuppressive therapy."

Civil Engineering Institute:

Arina Mokhireva, project "Normastroy – IT service for digital assessment of building projects."

Institute of Industrial Management, Economics and Trade:

Ilya Bodrov, project "Development of a medical service with gamification elements aimed at preventing atherosclerosis and its complications."

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Sobyanin: More than 1,350 km of wires have been removed underground over the 10 years of the Clear Sky project.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –

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Over the course of 10 years, more than 1,350 kilometers of overhead power lines have been moved underground. This was reported on their channel inMAX messenger Sergei Sobyanin reported.

"Thanks to this, Moscow has literally been transformed—overhanging power lines no longer mar the city's appearance. First, we renovated the city's iconic streets. Then we moved on to sites in other districts and the main highways," the Moscow Mayor wrote.

Source: Sergei Sobyanin's channel inMAX messenger

This year the work was carried out on Profsoyuznaya Street, 60th Anniversary of October Avenue, Marxist, Krasnoprudnaya and Bolshaya Cherkizovskaya Streets, Volgogradsky Prospect, Shchelkovskoye Highway, Academician Sakharov Avenue, as well as on the territory of the Luzhniki Olympic Complex and other facilities.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the project also offers important practical benefits. The cables are installed underground in conduits. They are easily accessible through cable manholes for repairs and new line connections. The cables are protected from adverse weather conditions, extending the lifespan of the networks. Furthermore, emergency response capabilities are expanded. medical helicopters can land even on narrow streets.

Subscribe to Sergei Sobyanin's official channels on messengers MAX AndTelegram.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

"Winter Holidays in Moscow in the 19th and 20th Centuries": a lecture and mini-tour

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –

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Guests are invited to discuss the cultural and architectural aspects of Christmas and New Year, and to stroll through the palace's state rooms.

From January 2 to 10, the Petrovsky Travel Palace will host a special cultural and educational program.

On January 2, 3, and 10, visitors will be able to learn about the history of Christmas and New Year's celebrations in the pre-revolutionary and Soviet eras. A guide will discuss key city locations associated with the history of winter holidays, the image of a festive city in works of art, and the formation of familiar holiday traditions. Guests will learn how decorated fir trees appeared on the streets and in residents' homes, how the city prepared for Christmas in the 19th century, how attitudes toward winter holidays changed during the Soviet era, and which city streets and squares were the centers of Christmas and New Year's celebrations in the past. Furthermore, they will be able to learn where favorite New Year's films were filmed and what gastronomic specialties of the holidays were characteristic of different eras.

The lecture will take place in the conference room on the first floor of the Petrovsky Palace and will last 50-60 minutes. Following this, a guided tour will discuss the major milestones in the palace's history and explore the interiors of the state rooms on the second floor. Visitors will see the state rooms, where all Russian monarchs from Catherine II to Nicholas II visited and where receptions were held. They will also see the painted dome in the central Round Hall, the stucco bas-reliefs, and the grand staircase. The tour will last 30-40 minutes.

The event starts at the palace's northern entrance, checkpoint no. 5, on the Left Palace Alley. The entrance is located 10 meters to the left of the palace's central entrance, near the first two towers and the arch between them.

Address: Leningradsky Prospekt, Building 40, near the Dynamo (city exit No. 1) and Petrovsky Park (city exit No. 3) metro stations. Then it's a 7-10-minute walk.

You must have your original passport (or birth certificate for guests under 14). Admission to the grounds is restricted to those who have been assigned a ticket; your ticket cannot be shared. Part of the tour takes place outdoors; organizers recommend dressing appropriately for the weather and wearing comfortable shoes.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

A RUDN University student won 1,000,000 rubles in the "I Do" competition track of the All-Russian student project "Your Move"

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peoples'Friendship University of Russia

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A RUDN University economics student is among the winners of the fifth season of the All-Russian student competition "Your Move." Second-year student Elizaveta Levina (Advertising and Public Relations major) was among the top 100 winners out of 12,779 applications from across Russia.

The media project "Partner | Unified State Exam" brought her victory. Here's how the idea was born.

"Students who score 100 points are geniuses," I thought when Channel One reported on the stories of students who'd scored the maximum on the Unified State Exam. I could only dream of a 100 points. "Well, so what? There's no harm in dreaming," I thought throughout high school. But in 2024, I passed the Unified State Exam in Russian with a perfect score of 100. This became a reality thanks to a friend with whom I studied for the exam. After enrolling at RUDN University on a scholarship, I realized I wanted to share my experience with today's students and show that anyone can get a perfect score on the Unified State Exam. And achieving such a result is much easier with a like-minded person. That's how the idea for the "Partner | Unified State Exam" project was born, where anyone can find a friend to study with through a special chat," says Elizaveta Levina.

Our student's idea is being implemented as part of the "I'm Doing" competition track of the All-Russian student project "Your Move," which is part of the "Russia – Land of Opportunity" presidential platform. The media project's VKontakte community has several regular columns, the main one being "Interview with a 100-Point Scorer." Text and video interviews have already been published with students who achieved 100 points in all Unified State Exam (USE) subjects, including Nadezhda Yashmolkina, the only student in the country who achieved 400 points. The community also covers USE news, including changes to the exam schedule and procedures. Short, funny videos also help students cope with stress.

For winning the competition, Elizaveta received 1,000,000 rubles, which she can use to implement her idea, further education, charity, and improve her living conditions. Incidentally, the student won the competition in the "Pioneer" track last year. Back then, she created a presentation about RUDN University called "Cultural Walk," developed an itinerary for the "More Than a Journey" program, and defended her project, "The Image of a Russian Student."

"I would like to express my gratitude to my mother, who always believes in me, to RUDN University, which supports the "Partner | Unified State Exam" media project, and to all the organizers of the "Your Move" project," added Elizaveta Levina.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

"Making people laugh is a source of pride for me": Celebrating Yuri Nikulin's birthday

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Official website of the State –

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December 18th is a special day for anyone who loves laughter, the circus, and good cinema, as it was on this day in 1921 that the great clown, talented actor, and true hero Yuri Nikulin was born.

Growing up in a theatrical family, Yuri wanted to study acting after finishing school, but the war interrupted these plans.

Two wars

In 1939, the future artist was called up for military service, and for the next seven years he defended our country, first in the Soviet-Finnish War, during which Nikulin's battery protected the approaches to Leningrad from enemy air raids, and then in the Great Patriotic War, during which the artist also fought near Leningrad.

Circus on Tsvetnoy

Returning to civilian life in 1946, Yuri Nikulin attempted to enroll in a theater school, but both GITIS and VGIK rejected him, failing to recognize his talent.

However, he was accepted into the school-studio of spoken genres at the Moscow Circus on Tsvetnoy Boulevard, with which the artist never left, first working as a clown and then heading the institution.

Today, the Circus on Tsvetnoy is named after Yuri Nikulin, and his son runs it.

Acting career

The actor entered the film industry at age 36, making his first appearance in a cameo role in "Girl with a Guitar," starring Lyudmila Gurchenko. After several more small but memorable cameos, he joined the legendary trio Balbes, which, along with Experienced (Yevgeny Morgunov) and Coward (Georgy Vitsin), captivated audiences.

Comedies starring Yuri Nikulin continue to attract thousands of people of all generations to their screens. He created unforgettable characters in "The Diamond Arm," "Kidnapping, Caucasian Style," "The Old Robbers," "The Twelve Chairs," and others.

The actor was no less adept at dramatic roles, as can be seen in films such as "When the Trees Were Tall," "They Fought for Their Country," "Twenty Days Without War," "Scarecrow," and others.

Yuri Nikulin was remembered as a man of boundless kindness. "I'm a clown," the artist said of himself. "I get joy when I hear the audience laugh. I get joy when I see the smiles of children and adults."

Thank you for the laughter and tears, for my favorite films and the Circus on Tsvetnoy, happy birthday, legend!

Subscribe to the "Our GUU" Telegram channel. Publication date: December 18, 2025.

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Fairytale frigates carrying gifts decorated Moscow's river terminals.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –

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Specialists urban economy complex Enormous fairytale frigates have been installed at the Northern and Southern River Terminals. This was announced by the Deputy Mayor of Moscow for Housing, Utilities, and Public Works. Petr Biryukov.

"The themed structures feature ships with wind-filled sails, with New Year's gifts on their decks. Each vessel is 10 meters long and decorated with bright LED lighting. The frigates were positioned near the station buildings, and Christmas trees decorated with colorful baubles, stars, garlands, and other ornaments were erected nearby. Lighted trees were also installed at the Northern River Terminal," added Pyotr Biryukov.

New Year's Moscow

Over four thousand illuminated decorative structures and Christmas trees were installed throughout the city for the New Year and Christmas holidays. They create a festive atmosphere and provide additional illumination at night.

Light arches have appeared on Pushkinskaya Square and Novopushkinsky Square, on Tverskaya and Manezhnaya Squares, and on Gazetny and Kamergersky Lanes. They have undergone technological upgrades and now operate in full color with the ability to control light and color scenarios. The pedestrian section of the Boulevard Ring is traditionally decorated with light tunnels and the number 2026, and a giant Christmas tree bauble has been installed in Victory Park on Poklonnaya Hill.

The center of Moscow was decorated with illuminated arches.

Modern energy-saving LED lighting is used to decorate the city. These lights consume tens of times less electricity, are safe, and are designed to operate in all weather conditions.

In recent years, Moscow has accumulated a sufficient supply of decorative elements to fully embellish the city. All lighting and decorative structures are multifunctional, reusable, and transformable.

Moscow has begun preparing for the New Year, using decorations from previous years.The capital's bridges were decorated for the New Year.Light tunnels decorated Moscow in anticipation of the New Year.

Get the latest news quickly on official Moscow messaging channels. MAX AndTelegram.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

Poetry of creation

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –

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The concert-performance is based on Sergei Mikhalkov's book "War Poems" and explores poetry as a testament to the times, human resilience, and faith in Victory. The production is based on poems written by the author at the front and in the home front—heartfelt, direct, addressed to soldiers and officers, mothers and wives, children, home front workers, and prisoners of war.

Directors Evgeny Dubovskoy and Igor Sergeyev construct the play as a restrained and precise conversation about war, devoid of external pathos, where poetic words become the central character. It is a reflection on the inner strength of man, his responsibility to history, and the ability to create even in the midst of destruction.

The performance features Polina Borunova, Marianna Vasilyeva, Yulia Vostrilova, Danila Dzygar, Pavel Ilyin and others.

Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

The Polytechnic University's stardom is growing

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Peter the Great St. Petersburg Polytechnic University –

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The White Hall hosted the semi-final of the largest student cultural and creative project, "Polytechnic Star," which has been unveiling new talented vocalists and presenters for 18 consecutive seasons.

The participants went through auditions, numerous rehearsals, and meticulous preparation. The White Hall stage featured everything from world pop hits to rap and beatboxing. The entire show program was meticulously prepared and directed by the project's organizing team, led by Denis Levshin. The event was supported by the Student Club and the help of volunteers from the KOrgi organizing team.

"I want to express my deepest gratitude for the opportunity to participate in this incredible project. After months of preparation and the efforts of both organizers and participants, the long-awaited semi-final finally took place, and not only did it take place, but it was held at the highest level. Everything was perfect—from the semi-finalists' performances to the musical accompaniment during the breaks. I'm sure the final will amaze everyone even more with its scale and vibrancy!" commented Fatima Osmanova, a finalist in the "Hosts" category and a first-year student at the Institute of Mathematics, Economics, and Telecommunications.

The evening was memorable for its vibrant and dynamic performances, unique media coverage, and the sincere emotions of the participants and support groups.

I'm so happy to have made it to the finals. During our rehearsals, the stage truly felt like home, and I've made even more progress in a direction that truly brings me immense happiness! The guys and I have become very close during this time and have become a true team. The level of organization and scale of the project are simply outstanding. The organizers are incredibly talented. I won't make any predictions for the finals; I only know that I want to give it my all and enjoy what we're doing! shared season 18 finalist Anna Sviridova, a first-year student at the Institute of Mechanics, Economics, and Telecommunications.

The performances were judged by experienced experts for whom creativity, music, and youth initiatives have become an integral part of life: Tatyana Barabanova, Deputy Head of the Directorate of Cultural Programs and Youth Creativity at SPbPU; Alexander Tsepkalo, host of student and city events and finalist of the 15th season of the Polytechnic Star project; and Chairman of the United Student Council. Thomas Schochenmayer, as well as singer-songwriters – the winner of the 15th season Elena Shundeeva and the winner of the 11th season, Artem Ilchenko.

This year, the team was almost completely revamped, and we once again undertook a titanic effort to ensure the semi-final was a success! We put maximum effort into unlocking the potential of each vocalist: we added a lot of unique elements to their songs, allowing them to explore new genres and roles. It's also great that this year, the system for training hosts from scratch was fully operational, and we were able to showcase the results of this work at the semi-final. The semi-final was quite dynamic, with many memorable and captivating performances. And judging by the audience's feedback, we succeeded," shared project director Denis Levshin.

Of the 26 semi-finalists, 16 advanced to the final round. The project final will take place on April 23 in the White Hall. The name of the new "Polytechnic Star" will be announced then.

Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.