On Wednesday, thirty people were detained near the State Duma as they took part in a picket against legislation that can put an end to the adoption of Russian children by US citizens.

      Various sources say between 30 and 70 people were part of the protest. The precise number was difficult to establish as they hold a so-called ‘single person picket’, which does not require a license from the city authorities. Participants were standing a large distance apart holding banners with slogans such as “Set the children free”, “The interests of homeless children are more important than the ones of rich criminals”, “Give children a chance to live”.

      The police claimed that some of the picketers stood too close together turning the stand-alone action into a unsanctioned rally. About thirty people were detained, but dozens more, not holding any banners, remain outside the building, despite requests from the police that they disperse.

      Those detained will be charged with violation of picket rules – an administrative offence carrying a fine of 30,000 roubles (slightly under $1000).

      A controversial bill that would ban US citizens from adopting Russian children passed in a second reading in the Russia's Lower House on Wednesday.