And then there's this.
Britney had less than 2 grams, which is a very minor offense. She's being used as a political pawn. She's high profile and Russia probably wants a prisoner exchange.
Again, there's no way in hell I'd go to Russia for any reason. Same with Mexico.
Cannabis laws in Russia
Can you possess and use cannabis in Russia?
Russia’s government takes a tough stance on possession or use of cannabis. Both are illegal, in accordance with Article 228 of the country’s Criminal Code, and are punishable with a fine and/or a prison sentence. Since 2012, the penalties can be deferred if the offender is found to have a drug problem.
Possession of up to six grams is regarded as an administrative offence. Anything above seven grams is a criminal offence. However, there are reports of people being arrested for cannabis possession, only to have the authorities exaggerate the amount of cannabis they were caught with.
For ‘large-scale’ possession, the following punishments may be given:
A fine of up to 40,000 roubles
The equivalent amount of three months of the offender’s wages/salary
Compulsory works for up to 480 hours
Corrective labour for up to two years
Restriction or deprivation of liberty for up to three years (in most instances, prison)
For ‘especially large-scale’ possession, these penalties are increased to:
A fine of up to 500,000 roubles
The equivalent amount of three years of the offender’s wages/salary
And/or a restriction or deprivation of liberty for three to 10 years
If the individual willingly hands the cannabis over to the authorities, and ‘actively contributes’ to the uncovering and suppression of drugs-related activities, he may avoid being given any penalties.
