Russia Arrests 2 In First LGBTQ Criminal Case Under New Legislation

Russia has detained two individuals, an art director and a bar administrator, in a landmark legal case under recent anti-LGBTQ laws.

They are accused of running an "extremist organisation" and could face up to 10 years in prison if convicted.

This follows a November ban on the undefined "international LGBT movement" and an intensified campaign against LGBTQ rights. The pair, linked to the "Pose" bar in Orenburg, were arrested after being accused of promoting LGBTQ relationships, which a court tribunal deemed "non-traditional."

The arrests reflect Russia's growing conservatism, amplified by its conflict with Ukraine, and represent the fears LGBTQ advocates and human rights groups have harbored since last year.

Russia has ramped up repression, extending a 2013 ban on LGBTQ "propaganda" and outlawing gender change procedures. Amnesty International has called for a review of the homophobic Supreme Court ruling and an end to LGBTQ persecution.