Russia’s Deputy Minister of Justice, Vadim Balanin, has stated that unmarried cohabiting couples pose a threat to national security. Balanin made the claim without elaborating on the specific nature of the threat. The statement comes amidst a broader conservative shift within Russia under President Vladimir Putin, emphasizing traditional family values. He also expressed concern over the country’s high divorce rate, framing both issues as detrimental to societal stability. This declaration signals a potential tightening of regulations surrounding marriage and relationships. The move raises questions about potential legal or social consequences for those choosing to live together without being married. It reflects a growing trend of the Kremlin linking social issues to national security concerns.