Russia considering declaring a state of national emergency

Russia is considering declaring a state of national emergency over the coronavirus to allow the government to bring in tougher measures, three senior officials told Reuters, but the Kremlin denied the reports, according to Reuters.

Russia’s official tally of coronavirus cases rose to 2,777 on Wednesday with 24 dead. Dozens of Russian regions, including the city of Moscow, have already imposed a partial lockdown to curb the spread of the disease.

Under new rules that came into force in Moscow on Monday, residents can only leave their homes to buy food or medicine nearby, get urgent medical treatment, walk the dog or empty their bins.

But the three sources said the government was considering going further on a nationwide basis. “You won’t be allowed to leave the house or leave town unless you have a reason,” one of the sources said.

A fourth source – a senior lawmaker who requested anonymity in order to speak freely – said the state of emergency was under serious discussion, but that no final decision had been taken. “If needed, we (lawmakers) will back it unanimously,” the lawmaker said.

Asked about the various comments, however, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said: “No, a state of emergency is not being discussed.”

The government did not immediately respond to a request for comment. By law, only the president can declare a state of emergency after he has formally received the support of the upper house of parliament.