TODAY: Nabiullina, Ulyukayev, and Belousov shuffle indicates shift towards interventionist economics; legal expert summoned for questioning over Yukos report; Nevzlin sentenced in absentia; Bolotnaya trial begins; Snowden diplomatic row continues, Kerry warns of consequences; For Human Rights given three days.

Elvira Nabiullina, the new head of the Central Bank as of yesterday, resisted calls for radical monetary stimulus and a weaker rouble, but indicated that deep structural reforms are necessary if the economy is to attain the Kremin’s goal of 5% growth.  She also promised improved access to credit, and disparaged the use of interest rates to achieve growth targets: ‘One should not use short-term methods to resolve long-term problems.’  Taking up Nabiullina’s former role as Economic and Development Minister, new appointee Alexei Ulyukayev said his main task was to prevent a recession, and indicated a more liberal economic agenda.  This report suggests that the new postings ‘enhance the influence of interventionists and further sidelines liberals who advocate a more market-oriented approach’.  Andrei Belousov, whose previous post Ulyukaev fills, is now Putin’s top economic adviser: these moves ‘set the scene for a shift towards a more activist approach to managing Russia’s economy’, says Reuters.  Prime Minister Dmitry Medvedev wants the government to focus spending on key programs to ensure efficient use of funds.