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The article offers information on the relation between Russia, Europe and the U.S. including economic cooperation, human rights and military deterrence.

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The "people's republics" that appeared in eastern Ukraine in 2014 are often described as separatist, pro-Russian or even Russian-occupied. Their real status is probably best described as puppet states, a well-known phenomenon in the post-Soviet space. However, as long as Moscow continues to deny any direct involvement, its relations with the de-facto authorities in Donetsk and Luhansk can only be highly informal. While there is plenty of evidence describing heavy Russian influence, any comprehensive analysis of Moscow's role is limited by the lack of official confirmation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article examines alleged international relations dangers of economic sanctions and blockades of separatist-controlled Ukraine. The alleged nationalization of industries in Donetsk and Luhansk, Ukraine is scrutinized along with isolationist policy pursued by the separatist government.

The article reports on the assumed kidnapping and torture of Left Front activist Leonid Razvozzhayev, which he claims to involve psychological torture and forced signing of an admission of guilt to plans of inciting anti-Kremlin riots in Russia. Veteran rights activist Valery Borshchov says Razvozzhayev detailed to Moscow public oversight commission, his experience of being abducted and tortured.

The article reports that the Russian Foreign Ministry has accused the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) of meddling in Russian domestic politics.