Russian govt increases pensions

The Russian government has approved an increase in pensions, carrying out an order issued by President Vladimir Putin amid widespread protests over a new law replacing benefits with cash payments.

But demonstrations against the reform persisted in cities from Moscow to eastern Siberia.

Under the government plan, which is expected to win a quick parliamentary approval, pensions are to increase by an average of €6.60 when the hike takes place March 1, Health and Social Development Minister Mikhail Zurabov said, according to Russian news agencies.