October 29 – Russian President Vladimir Putin, under continual pressure from critics to allow everyone at the 2018 World Cup to move and act freely, says measures will be “effective but not intrusive”.
Putin says security services will be encouraged to work together to make sure the tournament passes off without problems.
“Here there should be complete cooperation, coordination of work of all services and departments. It should be marked for personal responsibility,” Putin told a meeting of Russian, regional and FIFA officials.
“Security measures should be effective, but not intrusive, not excessive. Do not create problems, or discomfort for athletes and fans.”
Amid widespread criticism of Russia’s role in eastern Ukraine and alleged human rights abuses at home, Putin wants the World Cup to showcase how his country has developed since the Soviet era into a modern society.
“We need to be hospitable and assiduous at the same time. Money has to be used sparingly and thriftily,” he said. “We have to ensure close cooperation and coordination of all agencies and services involved…There should be no problems or discomfort created for athletes or football fans.”
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