MOSCOW, January 30. /TASS/. Russian Human Rights Commissioner Tatyana Moskalkova has warned citizens against taking part in unsanctioned rallies on January 31.

"I am asking you not to violate the law, not to attend unlawful public rallies, and to respect the rights of other citizens and those doing their duty to protect public order and maintain lawfulness," Moskalkova’s press service quoted her on Saturday. "Freedom of speech and the right to public rallies can be implemented only in accordance with the law."

"Everyone, if they really are citizens who wish the best for themselves, their loved ones, the country and society, understands: there are no rights without obligations. Right now, our obligation is to ensure with our actions that the coronavirus pandemic ends as soon as possible," she added.

The human rights commissioner also addressed the government and the law enforcement with a request to protect underage persons from falling victim to provocations and act in accordance with the law.

Supporters of detained Alexey Navalny are calling on citizens to take to the streets on January 31 in his support. The Moscow police is warning against taking part in unsanctioned protests. The Main Directorate of the Russian Interior Ministry in Moscow noted that attempts to hold an unsanctioned public event and any provocative actions of its participants would be prevented immediately. The epidemiological situation in Moscow has been improving for the past several weeks, however, several COVID-19 restrictive measures are still in place, namely a ban on holding mass public events.