Russia records 197 more coronavirus deaths, toll soars to 5,717

Russia reported its second-highest one-day death toll from coronavirus even as number of new infections remains stey. As per reports, national coronavirus task force on June 6 said that 197 people died over past day, which is a sharp rise from 144 a day earlier. With over 458,000 confirmed COIVID-19 cases, Russia is one of worst-hit countries, following US and Brazil. dely virus has also claimed nearly 5,717 lives in country. 

Even with an increasing number of cases, Russian authorities eased strict lockdown that was imposed two months ago. While speaking at daily coronavirus briefings, Russian President Vlimir Putin said that ‘clear and stey decrease’ in new cases was a clear sign that Russia could move into next st of lifting restrictions and reopening country. Despite rapid rise, he also ded that coronavirus outbreak in Russia has begun to abate, creating a positive environment for easing restrictions. 

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Putin’s popularity falls amid pandemic response 

With a worsening situation in Russia, dissatisfaction with President Putin has also grown. As per reports, opinion polls suggest leer's popularity has fallen amid his response to pandemic and its ecomic repercussions. Even Putin's own spokesperson and Deputy Prime Minister h fallen sick to virus.

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Amid outbreak, Putin recently also anunced that annual May 9 massive military pare will be held in June. new date of June 24 marks 75th year after first victory pare in Red Square following Germany’s surrender to Soviet commanders on May 9. pare is Russia’s most important holiday. Thousands of people gar in Moscow, including elderly veterans proudly wearing ir medals. This year, pare was supposed to highlight Russia’s exception role in history and on world st, however, due to unprecedented COVID-19 outbreak, country h to postpone military pare. 

Furrmore, Putin has also set July 1 as date for a constitutional amendment plebiscite that would allow him to stay in power until 2036 if he chooses. “Indeed, July 1 looks like quite a suitable date to hold Russian vote on constitutional amendments,” Putin was quoted by local media as saying during a video conference with members of constitutional amendments working group after Central Election Committee He Ella Pamfilova proposed date. 

(Im: AP) 

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