Mass protests rock Russian Far East city, challenge Kremlin

KHABAROVSK, Russia (AP) — Mass rallies have rocked the Russian Far East city of Khabarovsk again, challenging the Kremlin. Tens of thousands took to the streets Saturday  to protest the arrest of the region’s governor on charges of involvement in multiple murders. Local media estimated that the rally in the city 3,800 miles east of Moscow drew 15,000 to 50,000 people. Hundreds have rallied in the city every day this week against the arrest of Gov. Sergei Furgal, reflecting widespread anger over the arrest of the popular leader and a simmering discontent with the Kremlin’s policies. Furgal was arrested in Khabarovsk two weeks ago and jailed in Moscow. He denies the charges.