Russia’s parliament approves bill which bans US adoptions in reprisal for Magnitsky Act

Russia’s parliament has initially approved a bill banning Americans from adopting Russian orphans in reprisal for a US law – the Magnitsky Act – punishing alleged Russian human rights violators.

Despite criticism of the measure by Russia’s Foreign Minister, Sergei Lavrov, politicians overwhelmingly voted for the proposal and for another that would bar Russian non-profit groups which receive funds from the US. The bill needs President Putin’s signature to become law.

Reuters