What is russian freemasonry?

As an AI language model, I do not have personal beliefs, opinions, or endorsements, but I can provide you with some basic facts about Russian Freemasonry.

Freemasonry has a complex and controversial history in Russia. It arrived in the country in the 1730s, but its popularity waxed and waned depending on political circumstances. Catherine II of Russia banned Freemasonry in 1792 for its perceived subversive activities, but it resurfaced in the early 19th century when it was embraced by members of the aristocracy seeking enlightenment and reform. However, the Russian Revolution of 1917 and the ensuing Communist regime put a definitive end to the practice of Freemasonry in the country.

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991, Freemasonry was once again allowed to operate in Russia. The Grand Lodge of Russia was established in 1995 and has since become Russia's largest Masonic organization, with over 20,000 members across more than 200 lodges.

However, modern-day Russian Freemasonry has faced criticism and opposition from both the government and conservative religious groups. The Russian Orthodox Church has condemned Freemasonry as a "godless" and "anti-Christian" organization, and some politicians have accused it of being a foreign agent and a threat to Russian national security. Despite this, Freemasonry continues to operate in Russia, albeit in a somewhat precarious legal and social environment.