Category: Университетская жизнь /

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –

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IN Moscow Drama Theater named after M.N. Ermolova the premiere of the play took place "____ in Rus' ____ is good" Based on Nikolai Nekrasov's poem, director Dmitry Mulkov and playwright Artem Kazyukanov's production transforms the classic work into a garage rock concert for modern workers, where the main road is replaced by the well-worn ruts of a workshop, guitars made from canisters replace the gusli, and the question "Who lives well in Rus'?" resonates as poignantly as it did a century and a half ago.

Dmitry Mulkov: "It's as if it was written specifically for rock."

— Dmitry, in your play, seven of Nekrasov's men become workers who play rock music in a garage. How did this idea come about?

"One day, I stumbled across a rock band on VKontakte with the amazing name "Tekhmashrecords." They're two workers from Vorkuta who write songs in their garage to their own lyrics—rock and even punk. I fell in love with their music and thought: these are just like Nekrasov's characters! I wanted to combine this energy with Nikolai Nekrasov's lyrics.

Initially, it was an experiment—to test the extent to which Nekrasov's poems could become genre music. It turned out they were written specifically for this purpose. I also acted as composer for the production: we rehearsed together and composed the music simultaneously.

— In the play, we see customized musical instruments. Did you make them yourself? Do they sound authentic?

"Yes, it's been a long-standing passion of mine. Our show features several guitars made from canisters—I made them myself. When the idea for the garage story came up, I already had one such guitar. We tried it out, tweaked it, and it worked. Then the passion grew: I sawed metal, remade a bass guitar. Together with the designer Igor Kanevsky, we found a solution for the performance space, and from there I designed the individual instruments."

They're all real, working instruments. Many of the actors had to relearn how to play. For example, our bassist, Oleg Filipchik, who plays Pakhom, had never played bass before; he's a guitarist, but he had to master the specifics of the instrument, especially such a unique one, on the spot.

— Why a garage and not a main road, like Nekrasov’s?

"I think it's directly related. The garage, where a philosophical debate takes place, and the road are one and the same. We have a well-worn track through the garage, and cars are constantly driving into it. Metaphorically, it all fits together. The industrial park garage is a modern highway, a meeting place for people."

Nekrasov's peasants were looking for a lucky man—a priest, a landowner, a tsar. Has the "list of candidates" changed for your modern heroes?

"We were stunned by one discovery. We were doing verbatim with a modern priest from the Leningrad region, and he recounted exactly the same things as Nekrasov's priest almost 200 years ago. A similar story unfolded after a conversation with a real government official. This was very important for us in terms of research. We spoke with modern prototypes, and the whole team reflected on what happiness is and what is necessary to live a free and joyful life in Rus'."

— Do you have a personal answer to the question of who lives well in Rus'?

"In Nekrasov, at the very end of the poem, this question becomes an affirmation, a prayer for everyone to live well, a hope that someday everyone will be happy and at ease. Nikolai Alekseevich doesn't put a period or a question mark in the title. So it is with us: having asked this question at the beginning, we ultimately come to the hope that someday things will be good. So there is no answer. But there is hope."

Artem Kazyukanov: "If the audience doesn't argue after the performance, it's not our performance."

— Artem, you almost completely reworked Nekrasov's poem into a modern play. How did you work with the language?

"A colossal amount of work was done. The songs were retained—the music was composed, but the lyrics were based almost verbatim on Nekrasov's work; they were completely original and familiar. But the main characters' parts were translated into modern language. From the language of poetry to the language of prose."

Initially, when we were dissecting Nekrasov's text, we studied the peculiarities of the peasant language of that era. Now, as we were creating a modern analogy, I was delighted to find interesting words and expressions in overheard conversations, which I later conveyed to the characters in our play. This profound work with language is one of the two most important aspects of this production for me.

— And the second aspect?

"An attempt to answer the question of who lives well in Rus'. I don't want to and can't give an answer because it's still oscillating around the median. And it's not a given that it will settle on a single position. If it does, it means we haven't nailed something down."

It's symbolic that Nekrasov didn't finish the poem. It left something unsaid—not in the sense that half the poem is missing, but in the sense that there's room for reflection. For me as a playwright, for Dmitry as a director, and, most importantly, for our audience.

I can say for sure: if after a performance by director Dmitry Mulkov and playwright Artem Kazyukanov, the audience leaves without arguing, then it wasn't our production. This dialogue, this debate, these questions are important to us.

Oleg Filipchik: "Time goes by, but the problems remain. It's so interesting!"

Oleg, Nekrasov literally describes your character Pakhom in one word: "old man." How did you develop the role?

"It's a curious thing. I love working with this company because our director is 25 years old and sees things completely differently. That's wonderful. The very fact that he's taking on Nekrasov's work, which today would require coercion to be read, even by schoolchildren, is already an act of courage. I have a feeling very few people even understand what this poem is about."

— What do you think it’s about?

"In short, people dreamed of revolution and fought for freedom. When serfdom was abolished, it suddenly became clear that things had actually gotten worse. The book is about that. It's about how revolutions and radical changes in the Russian Empire don't always produce immediate results."

And Nekrasov lamented this: it's bad for the landowners, and for the priests, and for the ministers—for everyone, because any upheaval for Russia is a disaster. Perhaps he didn't finish his poem because he had reached revelations that he, a lifelong revolutionary, was ashamed to voice. But the most remarkable thing is that time passes, and the problems remain. This is so interesting, so amusing, and it gives food for thought.

— Did you have to learn a new instrument for the role?

"Yes, I became the bass player in that rock band. Many of the guys had to relearn, or learn it for the first time. Danila Kazakov, who plays Luka, is a self-taught drummer. It was fun, albeit noisy: after a five-hour music rehearsal, you're sitting there with your ears ringing."

— What should the audience expect from the performance?

"I understand that many will be shocked by this garage, our singing. I'll say it right away: we scream songs like cats in March for the first 15 minutes. Don't worry, after that, everything will be fine, more or less classical theater."

You have to come with an open mind, understanding that this is food for thought. Mitya created these wonderful workers—steelworkers and metallurgists. I want to live in that atmosphere, closer to the earth.

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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.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –

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A series of charity and pre-New Year events have been organized at skating rinks in the South-Eastern Administrative District. These events include collection points for donations to participants in the Special Military Operation (SVO), as well as workshops, sports games, and quests as part of the project. Winter in Moscow.

Rest and help

The organization of humanitarian aid collection points near the ice rinks has already become a good tradition of the winter program.Park of the 850th Anniversary of Moscow in Maryino, onSoldatskaya Street in Lefortovo and on Volgogradsky Prospect In the Vykhino-Zhulebino district they will be open until the end of February 2026: on Saturdays from 12:00 to 20:00, on Sundays from 12:00 to 18:00.

You can bring warm clothing, bedding, personal hygiene items, household chemicals, medications, and bandages. Sweet gifts and non-perishable food items are also accepted. Anyone can also write a letter of well-wishes to the SVO soldiers.

All collected goods will be sent to new regions to support civilians, and packages for special operation participants will be delivered to the front lines. Last year, similar pre-New Year campaigns raised several tons of humanitarian aid.

Flash mob and quiz in Lefortovo

Visitors to the ice rinks can not only join charity events but also take part in a thematic program as part of the "Winter in Moscow" project.

So, in Lefortovo, at the skating rink located near house 15 on Soldatskaya Street, on December 20 from 15:00 to 16:00, young Muscovites, together with Moroz Ivanovich, will take a trip toNew Year's Express through themed stations with riddles, music, dancing and sporting events.

For children from families participating in the SVO, the staff of Children's Library No. 125 will host a game program and quiz, a workshop on making snowflake souvenirs, and then a "Christmas Tree Garland" relay race. The event will conclude with a New Year's flash mob.

The Basics of Figure Skating in Maryino

At the 850th Anniversary of Moscow Park (21 Porechnaya Street) in Maryino, festive festivities and a charity fundraiser will begin on December 20 at 12:00 PM. Fairytale characters will invite guests to play active family games, participate in contests, and solve riddles and puzzles. A New Year's dance of miracles will help you fully experience the atmosphere of the year's most important holiday.

Those interested can learn the basics of skating at the "Double Toe Loop" workshop. The class will be taught by professional figure skaters.

Hockey tournament on Volgogradsky Prospekt

You can combine relaxation and good deeds on December 20th and 21st starting at 12:00 PM at the skating rink located at Volgogradsky Prospekt, Building 181, Block 1.

Library No. 109 has prepared a "Snow Adventures" quest for young residents: children will follow a mysterious path where every step is a riddle and every footprint a clue. Guests will participate in a greeting card-making workshop and write letters to the SVO soldiers. Hockey fans will have the opportunity to compete for prizes. ice tournament. Starts at 13:00.

Take part in a fun team relay race using sticks and a puck at the skating rink on December 21st starting at 3:00 PM. If the weather is snowy, a snowball fight and a Christmas tree race will begin at 5:00 PM, and you can also get creative building snow towers. If there's no snow, the organizers will offer other activities.

Winter in Moscow— the main event of the season. The project aims to strengthen social and family ties, create an atmosphere of unity and mutual support, and assist those currently defending the Motherland. Through a variety of programs, including cultural, educational, and sporting events, it brings together Muscovites and visitors of all ages and interests, creating an environment for creative development, active recreation, and warm communication. Particular attention is paid to supporting participants and veterans of the special military operation and their families, as well as all those providing assistance to the front.

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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.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Specialists Moscow City Services Complex New street lighting systems were installed and existing ones were upgraded in the Central Administrative District (CAD). The work was carried out as part of the improvement program.

"Lighting is a key element of comprehensive urban development. It directly impacts safety and quality of life in the city. Installing new lighting systems in high-traffic areas—playgrounds, pedestrian routes, and recreation areas—creates a comfortable urban environment that residents can enjoy at any time of day," noted Roman Bukatov, Acting Head of the Outdoor Lighting and Architectural and Artistic Illumination Department at United Energy Company.

New lights have been installed on pedestrian paths, playgrounds, sports fields, courtyards, and parking lots.

The largest number of structures were renovated in the Tagansky (21 poles, 27 lamps), Meshchansky (16 poles, 16 lamps), and Tverskoy (nine poles, 23 lamps) districts. The popular public garden on Rogozhsky Val has been transformed: 11 new poles with 15 energy-efficient lamps have been installed. LED lighting provides comfortable illumination for pedestrian walkways and a children's playground.

Six smart lights have been installed in the courtyard on Olympic Avenue near building 22. These highly energy-efficient and long-lasting fixtures illuminate the play area and parking lot.

Vadkovsky Lane has also become significantly brighter: nine poles and 12 lamps have been installed along buildings 4/6, 12, and 16.

Work to modernize the Central Administrative District's urban infrastructure will continue. The projects currently underway in the capital to improve and create a comfortable urban environment are in line with the goals and objectives of the national project. Infrastructure for LifeMore information about Russia's national projects and the capital's contribution can be found atspecial page.

More than two thousand new street lamps have been installed in the New Moscow.

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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.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –

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A New Year's exhibition of works by students of the Sergei Andriaka Watercolor School has opened at the "My Documents" flagship government services center in the Northern Administrative District. The exhibition includes still lifes and holiday scenes, creating a warm, magical atmosphere and a New Year's spirit.

The school donated paintings from its collection to government service centers. The works, elegantly framed, became a focal point of the office space.

"My Documents has long since evolved into something more than just a government service center. Today, it's a true multifunctional space where residents and the city engage in dialogue about history, art, and patriotism. Collaboration with leading museums, libraries, and the Main Archives of Moscow has become a long-standing tradition. And today, on the eve of the New Year, we're opening another chapter of this partnership—together with the Sergey Andriaka Academy of Watercolor and Fine Arts. The exhibition at our flagship office in the Northern Administrative District is our gift to residents, where they can admire paintings that evoke warmth and fond memories. We thank the Academy for their collaboration and for sharing their art with Muscovites," noted Kristina Sirotinina, Deputy Director of Public Relations and Internal Communications for Moscow's Government Service Centers.

The exhibition is open until February 28, 2026.

In the lead-up to the New Year, residents will also be able to enjoy watercolor painting master classes from the academy's artists. The class schedule will be published on the official messaging channels of the My Documents Moscow government services center. MAX AndTelegram.

The flagship office of SAO is open daily from 10:00 to 22:00 in the Metropolis shopping center at the following address: Leningradskoe Shosse, Building 16a, Building 8.

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On Tverskoy Boulevard As part of the "Winter in Moscow" project and the "Journey to Christmas" festival, an exhibition of 57 Christmas trees created by Russian beauty companies is opening. The entrepreneurs created the festive space: each tree reflects their creative vision, aesthetics, and desire to bring beauty and inspiration to the capital.

The exhibition's color palette includes 13 pink, 14 red, 13 silver-white, 13 multicolored, and four golden fir trees. These shades were chosen deliberately. Pink symbolizes care, tenderness, and attention to people, which is especially important during the winter holidays. Red is traditionally associated with warmth and the anticipation of a miracle, white and silver with renewal and hope, gold with radiance and well-being, and the multicolored trees convey the idea of diversity and accessibility of the holiday for everyone.

Trends and classics

The exhibition features dozens of unique compositions, among which several stand out. One of the pink trees is decorated in a pastel, almost ethereal palette: large baubles and glossy accents create a sense of lightness and elegance, inspired by contemporary fashion trends. Another composition uses more saturated hues and mirrored details. This creates the effect of a vibrant photo zone and evokes the shimmering and glittering displays of stores.

Among the red fir trees, a composition featuring matte baubles and textured decorative elements stands out—a modern take on a classic, where contrasting surfaces enhance the depth of color perception. Particularly eye-catching is the tree, decorated with velvet baubles of various sizes, mounted on a glossy garland base: velvet remains one of the season's key trends, creating a feeling of softness and cozy luxury.

Silvery-white fir trees impress with their icy aesthetic. One tree is decorated with crystal-like elements, clear acrylic icicles, and delicate bubbles, creating the image of a magical winter chill. Another composition features a neon light contour, highlighting the fir's silhouette. Neon, a current decorative trend, lends dynamism and a modern, urban feel to the display.

Among the golden fir trees, a composition designed in a "modern chic" style occupies a special place. The warm metallic sheen, smooth balls, and sophisticated minimalism create an inner glow and emphasize the festive mood of the display.

The participation of entrepreneurs in the gallery's design underscores their important role in shaping the city's festive culture. By creating new aesthetic solutions, businesses complement Moscow's spaces with contemporary visual symbols and become co-creators of events that bring residents together. Such projects enable the capital to develop, and residents to see not only functionality but also beauty in their everyday environments.

Winter in Moscow— the main event of the season. The project aims to strengthen social and family ties, create an atmosphere of unity and mutual support, and provide assistance to those currently defending the Motherland. Through a variety of programs, including cultural, educational, and sporting events, it brings together Muscovites and visitors of all ages and interests, creating an environment for creative development, active recreation, and warm communication. Particular attention is paid to supporting participants and veterans of the special military operation and their families, as well as all those providing assistance to the front.

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

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.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Over 50 chain organizations and franchisees have already joined the "Winter in Moscow" project, hosting events, promotions, and offering discounts at their locations. Most of them are repeat participants. These companies have organized over 1,600 events at their locations for city residents and tourists.

You can join Winter in Moscow bylink, and also onmos.ru portal, where you must select the "On Your Own Site" option. Additionally, businesses can organize their own branded area at central venues, hold events at convenient locations under the city's brand, or participate in seasonal city decoration. All details are available in a special section. "Time of Business Opportunities".

Engage in sales, organize tastings and hold a themed event

Entrepreneurs can sell their products at seasonal event venues and in "Made in Moscow" pavilions, and hold tastings and themed events.

Additionally, entrepreneurs in the food service, retail, services, education, creative arts, beauty, hospitality, culture, and sports industries can invite guests to their venues and receive extensive support from the city. For example, they can host a free event, including a master class, seminar, show, or performance, at their venue, organize a giveaway promotion, or offer a discount.

Entrepreneurs participating in the project will receive a comprehensive advertising campaign—PR support in the media and social media, including publications on mos.ru, as well as promotion through Russpass, Yandex Maps, and 2GIS. They will also receive a winter "Business Box"—a set of tools created by market leaders for business development.

Which companies have joined Winter in Moscow?

Participants in the new season of "Winter in Moscow" include the Shokoladnitsa coffee shop chain, the Yakitoriya, Burger King, and Moremania restaurants, the Zoozavr pet supply chain, the Anderson family cafes, and many other organizations.

The fast-food restaurant chain Grabli has also joined the "Winter in Moscow" campaign. From early December to late January, customers can enjoy seasonal hot non-alcoholic fruit cocktails with a special promo code. The chain's CEO, Ivan Gubanov, said that collaborating with the city on seasonal projects is a viable way to maintain customer traffic.

Beauty industry companies are also participating in the "Winter in Moscow" project. For example, the Persona image laboratory salons are offering special offers for new clients in December, and from January through the end of February, new customers will be able to enjoy discounts on all salon services, bonuses, and other exciting gifts.

"Participating in the project is a powerful marketing tool: we attract a new audience, demonstrate the strength of our brand, and confirm that we remain a leader in the industry and keep up with the times," noted Elena Zemtsova, Marketing and Advertising Director for the management company of the image laboratory chain.

Another participant in the "Winter in Moscow" campaign is the dry cleaner chain Diana, which has prepared a number of offers on a variety of services. For example, during the winter months, from the 1st to the 15th, customers receive a discount on personal technologist services, and from the 16th to the 30th, they receive a discount on fur cleaning.

You can ask questions about participating in the Winter in Moscow project or receive a free consultation from the State Budgetary Institution Small Business of Moscow by phone: 7 495 225-14-14 or online atportal.

State Budgetary Institution "Small Business of Moscow", subordinate Department of Entrepreneurship and Innovative Development of the City of Moscow, helps people start and grow their businesses in the capital. Business service centers offer information about financial and non-financial government support measures. Free educational and business events are held for entrepreneurs, including forums, seminars, workshops, and conferences, helping them improve their professional skills and connect with like-minded individuals.

Support for entrepreneurs is provided within the framework of the federal project “Small and Medium Entrepreneurship and Support for Individual Entrepreneurial Initiatives,” which is part of the national project "Efficient and competitive economy", as well as the Moscow Mayor's strategy for supporting Moscow entrepreneurship. More information about Russia's national projects and the capital's contribution can be found atspecial page.

Winter in Moscow— the main event of the season and one of the key drivers of the city's economy. The project unites the efforts of the city and businesses, creating new opportunities for the development of tourism, trade, services, and creative industries. The project was created specifically for the convenience of businesses and effective integration with seasonal events. "Time of Business Opportunities", where you can choose the appropriate format for participation throughout the year. "Winter in Moscow" is an example of successful collaboration between the city and entrepreneurs, making the winter season not only vibrant and festive, but also economically significant for the capital.

Winter in Moscow: How a city project helped businesses attract thousands of customers last yearHow Participation in Urban Seasonal Projects Helps Businesses Grow

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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.

Translation. Region: Russian Federation –

Source: Moscow Government – Moscow Government –

An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

Sergei Sobyanin opened a new tram line on Trifonovskaya Street.

"Today, we're restoring historical justice by rebuilding the tram tracks on Trifonovskaya Street, thus connecting Belorussky Station and one of the largest transportation hubs—Rizhsky Station. Around half a million Muscovites will gain additional transportation accessibility, and the connection between the two hubs is also very important. We've strived to make the tram as quiet as possible. Accordingly, we've laid modern, low-noise tracks and launched the contactless "Lvenok" tram. This is the second line with contactless trams. The first has been tested and is working well. This will be the second. There will be no need for power substations, overhead lines, and so on. This is also very important," the Moscow Mayor emphasized.

Sergei Sobyanin also thanked the employees of the capital's transport complex for their work and wished them a happy New Year.

Restoring tram service along Trifonovskaya Street will provide a shorter route between Belorussky Railway Station and Rizhskaya metro station. Residents and visitors will also be able to more quickly reach the Russian University of Transport, MONIKI Hospital, and many other points of interest.

History of the tram line

The tram line on Trifonovskaya Street was built in the first half of the 1930s. Tram No. 5 ran on it for 60 years. It was one of the city's most popular routes, used by up to 100,000 people per day.

Tram service along Trifonovskaya Street was discontinued in the mid-1990s due to the reconstruction of the Bolshoy Krestovsky overpass, and instead of tram No. 5, a temporary bus No. 0 was launched, which later became the electric bus route C510.

In 2024–2025, at the direction of Sergei Sobyanin, a comprehensive improvement project was carried out on Trifonovskaya Street, including the restoration of tram service. Specifically, a 2.1-kilometer double-track tram line was built.

"Today we're opening a second line without overhead wires, with trams running autonomously. After 30 years, tram No. 5 is once again running between Belorussky Railway Station and Rizhskaya Metro Station along Trifonovskaya Street. Moscow Metro specialists have replaced the rails, sleepers, and track surface. New tracks have been laid on the section of Gilyarovsky Street between Trifonovskaya Street and Rizhskaya Square, and a tram turning loop has been installed near Rizhskaya Metro Station," the Moscow Mayor wrote on his channel.

messenger MAX.

Source: Sergei Sobyanin's channel inMAX messenger

All track restoration and construction work was carried out by Moscow Metro specialists without the involvement of contractors.

The new section of tram tracks has been integrated into the existing network—the intersection of Trifonovskaya and Obraztsova Streets now has three modern turnouts.

Modern reconstruction

The tram line was constructed using seamless track laying technology, rubber seals, and special vibration-isolating mats. This ensures the trams will move quietly and smoothly. The new tracks are separated from the roadway by continuous markings.

Eleven elevated platforms have been installed at tram stops, including nine Vienna-style platforms—with a raised roadway level with the low floor of the tram. These stops are installed on streets where widening the roadway is not feasible.

To improve safety and comfort for city residents, 11 additional traffic lights, 145 outdoor lighting supports, 65 contrast lighting supports, and 189 small architectural features were installed along the new route.

Along Trifonovskaya and other streets along which the new tram line runs, 30,100 square meters of lawns and 930 square meters of flower beds were laid out, 33 trees and about 1,900 shrubs were planted.

A new, comfortable public space has appeared in Riga Square. The pedestrian area is paved with granite tiles, cozy seating areas with benches have been created, and green spaces with trees, shrubs, and perennials have been created. The centerpiece of the space is the "Riga Cat" stele, reminiscent of similar figures on the towers of the Cat House in Riga.

Tram route No. 5

The reconstruction of the tram tracks on Trifonovskaya Street has allowed the restoration of the #5 tram route from Belorussky Railway Station to Rizhskaya Metro Station. The 4.4-kilometer route runs through Lesnaya, Palikha, and Tikhvinskaya Streets, then along Minaevsky and Novosushchevsky Pereulok, Obraztsova, Trifonovskaya, and Gilyarovsky Streets to Rizhskaya Metro Station, linking three Moscow districts: Tverskoy, Maryina Roshcha, and Meshchansky.

Route No. 5 is served by seven modern Lvenok-Moskva trams. Their departure intervals are approximately six to seven minutes. The route has 16 stops, including six new ones: MIIT, Sovetskoy Armii Street, Olimpiysky Prospekt, Shchepkina Street, Gilyarovsky Street, and Rizhskaya Metro Station.

In addition to the Belorussky and Rizhsky railway stations, transfers are available to eight stations on a similar number of rail lines, including Belorusskaya on the Zamoskvoretskaya and Koltsevaya metro lines and the stations of the same name on the first and fourth Moscow Central Diameters (MCD), Mendeleevskaya on the Serpukhovsko-Timiryazevskaya metro line, and Rizhskaya on the Kaluzhsko-Rizhskaya and Big Circle metro lines, as well as the station of the same name on MCD-2. A quick and convenient transfer between the tram and Rizhskaya metro station takes less than a minute.

In the future, passengers on tram No. 5 will be able to transfer to the high-speed Moscow-St. Petersburg railway.

The travel time between the terminal stops of tram #5 is approximately 20 minutes. Approximately 500,000 local residents and employees of numerous organizations and institutions located along the new route now have more convenient and faster daily commute options. In particular, accessibility has been improved for popular locations such as the Depot. Moscow food mall on Lesnaya Street, the Jewish Museum and Tolerance Center on Obraztsova Street, the Armenian Church Complex at the intersection of Trifonovskaya Street and Olympic Avenue, the Palace of Culture of the Russian University of Transport (RUT) (MIIT) and the N.P. Rakov Children's Music School on Novosushchevsky Lane, and the M.F. Vladimirsky Moscow Regional Research Clinical Institute (MONIKI) on Shchepkina Street.

Thus, travel time from the Rizhskaya metro station to RUT (MIIT) and the M.F. Vladimirsky Moscow Regional Scientific Research Institute (MONIKI) will be halved—to 10 and five minutes, respectively.

The new route will improve transportation services for 25,000 students at five major universities: RUT (MIIT), Russian State University for the Humanities, D.I. Mendeleyev University of Chemical Technology of Russia, National Research University Higher School of Economics, and Moscow State Technological University "Stankin." Tram route No. 5 can rightfully be called a student route.

The projected passenger flow is approximately 20,000 people per day. By 2030, passenger numbers are expected to increase by 75 percent, to 35,000 people per day.

Simultaneously with the opening of the new line on Trifonovskaya Street, tram route #9 (Belorussky Station – MIIT) and electric bus route C510 (Rizhskaya Metro Station – Tikhvinskaya Street) will cease service, as tram route #5 has merged their routes. However, its capacity is 20 percent greater than the combined capacity of the routes being cut.

New Year's transport

Traditionally, festively decorated Moscow metro trains, electric buses, buses, and trams take to the streets in the lead-up to the New Year. This year, these will be:

— 24 New Year's metro trains;

— 50 electric buses with luminous garlands and 100 buses in New Year’s decorations;

— 60 Vityaz-Moscow trams and two Lvenok-Moscow trams with illuminated garlands, one of which will run on the new route No. 5, the second on the Moscow Tram Diameter (MTD) T1;

— the historical Tatra tram with a New Year’s installation;

— a branded tram "Vityaz-Moscow" with festive pine garlands inside.

In addition, over 100 metro stations have been decorated for the New Year. Light installations on the platforms, vibrant facades, and themed photo zones create a magical New Year's atmosphere.

Christmas tree decorations and Santa Claus's residence: how metro stations are decorated for the New Year

The Northern and Southern River Terminals also sported a New Year's look. Light installations and fir tree arches were installed, and the interiors of the buildings were also decorated for the holidays. A free children's carousel was installed near the Northern Terminal. In total, the river terminals feature around 20 themed attractions.

If frost persists, two electric tubing tracks, ski trails along the Moscow Canal, and an ice town will open at the Northern River Terminal.

The Lion Cub-Moscow tram

Passengers on the restored route #5 are transported by Russian-made, single-section "Lvenok-Moskva" trams with autonomous propulsion. They travel over four kilometers along Trifonovskaya Street from Obraztsova Street to Rizhskaya Square and back, without connecting to the overhead power line.

The autonomous "Lvenok-Moscow" trams, which can operate without wires, have proven their efficiency and reliability. They operated reliably on tram route No. 90, which connected Sokolniki metro station and Paveletsky Railway Station via Akademika Sakharova Prospekt. Over the two months of operation, 900,000 people used them. Since November 2025, the autonomous trams have been successfully transporting passengers on the Moscow Transport Ring, which accounts for approximately 79,000 trips per day.

More than 1.8 million trips were made on the Diameter tramway in a month, according to Moscow Mayor.

The new trams have a range of over five kilometers, and energy is stored in other sections of the network. When entering a section without overhead wires, the driver lowers the pantograph. This procedure takes minimal time and does not affect the trip duration—all operations occur during stops.

The tram has 41 seats, and the entire car comfortably accommodates over 110 passengers. Passengers' comfort is enhanced by climate control, multimedia screens, mobile device charging ports, and a push-button door opening system. The new trams feature low floors at all doors and are adapted for passengers with limited mobility, as well as those with strollers, bicycles, and large luggage.

The use of an autonomous driving system on the route reduces delays due to infrastructure damage and ensures adherence to schedules. In the long term, it will provide significant savings on the maintenance and repair costs of tram infrastructure, including due to the long service life of the batteries installed on the new generation trams.

It is also important that tram lines without overhead contact improve the aesthetic perception of city streets.

Development of the Moscow tram network

The length of tram tracks in Moscow is more than 430 kilometers, 82 percent of which are separated from highways and located on a dedicated track.

In 2010, only four percent of trams on the lines were new. Today, 97 percent of the fleet is new. The average age of the rolling stock is less than six years—the best indicator not only in Russia but also among major cities worldwide.

The capital operates 37 routes, with passengers making approximately 800,000 trips daily—a 40 percent increase compared to 2023. Among the most popular are the Moscow Tram Diameter T1 (approximately 79,000 trips), No. 17 Medvedkovo-Ostankino (over 52,000 trips), and No. 6 Bratsevo-Sokol Metro (44,000). By 2030, the launch of the Moscow Tram Diameters is expected to bring at least 1.2 million passengers daily, exceeding the targets set in the transport development strategy.

Since 2010, the average tram speed (including stops) has increased by 30 percent to 16 kilometers per hour. This was made possible by a large-scale infrastructure modernization program, route network expansion, fleet upgrades with increased capacity, as well as the segregation of tram tracks and the construction of convenient elevated platforms at stops.

In 2024, a double-track tram line over 860 meters long opened on Sergiya Radonezhskogo Street, enabling the creation of a new tram route #2 between 3rd Vladimirskaya Street and Kursky Station. The service interval is now 10 minutes. Approximately 700,000 residents of the South-East, East, and Central Administrative Districts now have more convenient and faster daily commute options. Over 300,000 residents from the eastern districts—Lefortovo, Sokolina Gora, and Perovo—can now travel directly to Kursky Station.

"The year 2025 can rightfully be called the year of the Moscow tram—we have implemented three projects that will shape the future of this mode of urban transport for decades to come. The first fully driverless tram in Russia has entered service in the capital. Sections of tram lines without overhead wires, servicing autonomous trams, have also been opened. And finally, the first Moscow Tram Diameter has been launched," the Moscow Mayor added on his channel.

messenger MAX.

Source: Sergei Sobyanin's channel inMAX messenger

In April 2025, after a major renovation, the renovated P.L. Apakov tram depot on Shabolovka Street opened. It is the oldest operating electric transport facility in the capital, dating back to 1909. After the modernization, it became modern and innovative. Now, the depot can service the new generation of trams operating in the capital. Its capacity is 100 single-section cars.

In September 2025, a 2.1-kilometer line opened on Akademika Sakharova Prospekt from Komsomolskaya Square to Chistoprudny Boulevard, and new route No. 90 was launched from Sokolniki metro station to Paveletsky Railway Station. In November, it became part of the first Moscow tram diameter, T1.

In December, the tram line on Trifonovskaya Street was restored and route No. 5 was launched from Belorussky Railway Station to Rizhskaya metro station.

Plans for the coming years include further expansion of Moscow's tram network, including extending lines on Entuziastov Highway to the Ivanovskoye district and on Akademika Korolev Street to the TV Center and Ostankino MCD station. These new lines will increase the coverage of the city's tram system and make this mode of transport even more popular.

In the spring of 2026, the 33-kilometer-long T2 diameter will open. It will stretch from the Chertanovskaya metro station to the Novogireevo station of the Moscow Central Diameter 4 (along routes 3 and 37), improving transportation service for over a million residents. Total passenger traffic is expected to reach approximately 85,000 passengers per day. Thus, Moscow will have two tram diameters with a combined length of approximately 60 kilometers.

For passenger convenience and safety, tram stops are equipped with elevated boarding platforms, located at the same level as the tram entrance. Currently, more than 530 such platforms are installed in the city.

By the end of 2026, the city fleet will receive another 50 modern, next-generation single-section trams. All will be delivered to the modernized P.L. Apakova depot. This will complete the fleet upgrade. The trams will be equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable ride: a completely low floor, climate control, multimedia screens, and mobile device charging ports. The trams will be equipped with an autonomous propulsion system, allowing them to travel over five kilometers without overhead wires.

Furthermore, Sergei Sobyanin decided to modernize tram depots. Plans call for the reconstruction of four of them by 2030, as well as the conversion of the former 7th trolleybus depot on Nagatinskaya Street into the new Nagatinskoye tram depot. As a result, all seven depots will meet modern servicing standards for the latest generation of trams.

Launch of the first driverless tram

In 2023, the Moscow Center for Research and Development of Unmanned Transport began working on a practical solution to the problem posed by Sergei Sobyanin: organizing the operation of unmanned trams.

Tram route No. 10, which is vital for Strogino residents, was selected for testing and then for regular service. More than 4,500 trips are made on it daily on six modern Russian-made trams.

In accordance with Russian law, the launch of the country's first fully driverless tram was carried out in three stages, during which numerous tests were conducted.

The first phase, which began in May 2024, involved testing a driverless, unmanned tram with a backup system. The system ensured the tram's movement, but the final decisions remained with the driver.

As a result, the driverless tram and its software were fully prepared for the second stage of testing – test rides with passengers.

Its implementation became possible after the Russian Government established an experimental legal regime (ELR) for the launch of driverless vehicles. The document was prepared by the Russian Ministry of Economic Development based on a proposal from the Moscow Government. The capital became the first city in the country to initiate the use of an ELR for the launch of fully driverless vehicles.

During the second phase, the driverless tram operated both with and without passengers. The driverless system assumed control and decision-making functions, while the driver backed up the tram's operations.

The tram ran around the city on a special schedule. A large screen displayed key operating indicators for various systems. This allowed passengers to evaluate how the vehicle viewed its surroundings through the machine vision system.

Following the results, a decision was made to launch regular passenger-carrying unmanned tram service; the third stage began on September 3, 2025.

The tram operates regularly and works standard eight-hour shifts. During this time, it has carried over 50,000 passengers, and since May 2024, it has traveled over 21,000 kilometers within the city without a single traffic violation.

Russia's first driverless tram makes stops autonomously, opens and closes its doors, obeys traffic lights, yields to pedestrians, navigates intersections independently, switches switches, and adheres to schedules. The system operates in such a way that it never collides with traffic in front.

A tram control employee is present in the vehicle or cabin to visually monitor traffic and perform other functions unrelated to traffic, including fare collection. For passengers, the experience is no different from a regular tram ride with a driver—it remains just as comfortable and safe. In the event of an emergency, the employee will open or close the doors and assist with other issues. The employee does not interfere with the tram's operation—artificial intelligence and specialized software allow the vehicle to operate fully automatically.

The presence of an operator in the driverless tram is a current federal requirement. The Moscow government is working with the Russian Ministry of Transport to amend the law to allow the presence of an operator in the cabin without a tram operating license.

The tram software was developed by Moscow Metro employees without the involvement of third parties. The unmanned technology is owned by the Moscow Government. This Moscow-developed technology is unique; it operates more precisely, efficiently, reliably, and reliably than foreign equivalents, and is therefore capable of operating the tram in metropolitan conditions using artificial intelligence.

Innovative solutions developed for the launch of Russia's first driverless tram have already been recognized with prestigious national and international awards, including the Reforum Awards (in the Innovation of the Year category), Company of the Future 2024 (Digital Transformation), Magistral Awards (Best Project of the Year), CDO/CDTO Awards 2025 (Digital Region), Digital Leaders Award 2025 (Digital Leader of the Year), Priority: Digital 2025 (Artificial Intelligence), and Ecotech Leader 2025 (Perspective).

Thanks to effective collaboration with the Bank of Russia, the capital's driverless tram also became the first vehicle in the country to be insured using a smart contract with settlements in digital rubles.

The digital form of the national currency combines reliability, high payment speed, and security thanks to the complete transparency of all financial transactions. Passengers' trips are also insured. To receive coverage, simply pay for your trip using your preferred payment method and swipe your card on the validator upon boarding.

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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.