Russia Says Nyet to Online Gambling

Russian Prime Minister Vladimir Putin suggested back in 2006 a ban on casino gambling. This week it has become law.

As of Wednesday, casinos and gambling halls, including online gambling, are illegal in a list of major Russian cities, including Moscow. Four distant regions will be allowed to host casinos, though.

The ban follows similar measures passed in the Ukraine about a week ago. In both countries, the laws seem to please the poor and the elderly, while raising concerns of rising unemployment and ulterior motives.

On the one hand, supporters of the law claim it will help control addiction problems and a shady business practices. On the other hand, 300,000 Russians and 200,000 Ukrainians were employed in the industry, and a ban might simply push the industry underground where it will be even harder to control.