Two Russian Women Face Prison for Easter Bread Desecration Charges

Two Russian women are facing criminal prosecution for insulting religious feelings after posting provocative images involving kulich, a traditional Orthodox Easter bread. The women could face up to one year in prison if convicted. Orthodox bloggers and believers alerted police to the problematic photographs of the ceremonial pastry. The case highlights Russia's strict laws against offending religious sentiment, particularly those of the Russian Orthodox Church, which holds significant influence in the country and has been increasingly protected by legislation in recent years.