Novosti - No 3 1989

Magazine Overview

This issue of "News" magazine, dated 1989 and published by "MOSCOW 'MIR'", is primarily in Russian and focuses on a variety of contemporary Soviet issues, with a particular emphasis on Leningrad. The cover prominently features the headline "WEAPONS OF THE INOPLANETIANS" (ОРУЖИЕ ИНОПЛАНЕТЯН), suggesting a theme of science fiction or extraterrestrial encounters, further reinforced by the calendar for 1990 which promotes reading Willy Konna's science fiction.

Fate of Nevsky Prospekt

The magazine dedicates significant attention to the fate of Nevsky Prospekt, Leningrad's iconic avenue. Under the heading "THE FATE OF NEVSKY PROSPEKT", articles discuss its deteriorating condition and the efforts to restore its historical charm. The Leningrad City Executive Committee has passed a resolution granting Nevsky Prospekt a special status, aiming to move organizations that do not necessarily need to be located there. This initiative seeks to restore its 'Petersburg charm' and address issues like prostitution, drug addiction, and hooliganism that have plagued the area. The article highlights the need for significant work to repair dilapidated structures and decorative elements. A fund has been established for the 'Improvement of Nevsky Prospekt and Adjacent Territories', with bank details provided for donations. The article appeals to the public for financial contributions, noting that only two enterprises, 'Trudprom No. 14' and 'Bol'shevichka', have made significant donations so far. The piece also touches upon the dire state of street cleaning, with only 50 sweepers for the millions of people who use the avenue daily.

The Cooperative Movement

Another major theme is the burgeoning cooperative movement in the USSR. An interview with Vitaly Lukyanchenko, Chairman of the Union of Cooperatives of Leningrad, titled "SOAP, COFFEE, CANNED MEAT - TOMORROW", explores the economic potential of cooperatives. Lukyanченко argues that cooperatives, if freed from bureaucratic restrictions and monopolies on raw materials, can ensure an abundance of goods at prices lower than state-run enterprises within two years. He criticizes the current tax system, noting that taxes on cooperatives were lower during Stalin's era of economic suppression than they are now during its development. He also addresses the moral aspect, lamenting the negative portrayal of cooperators in the media, which he believes unfairly associates them with speculators. Lukyanченко calls for legislative support and expresses readiness to implement programs if the government provides the necessary legal framework. He believes that the success of Perestroika is intrinsically linked to the success of the cooperative movement, which he sees as a 'new NEP'.

Poltergeist Phenomena

The issue features an extensive article on poltergeist phenomena, titled "POLTERGEIST". It compiles numerous accounts from various parts of the USSR, including Leningrad, Moscow, and Borisov, detailing unexplained occurrences such as knocking sounds, moving objects, and spontaneous fires. The article cites reports from law enforcement officials and journalists who have witnessed these events firsthand. It draws parallels with historical accounts of similar phenomena from pre-revolutionary Russia and even ancient China and Europe, suggesting that poltergeists are not a new phenomenon but rather have been historically suppressed or dismissed as superstition. The article explores various theories, including the idea that poltergeists might be linked to telekinesis or even extraterrestrial influences. It discusses the case of a boy named Sasha K. from Yenakievo, who was suspected of causing fires, and the controversial hypothesis of Valentin Fomenko, who suggests that poltergeist activity is a result of an advanced artificial civilization monitoring Earth through 'gluon chains'. The article concludes by noting that while the causes remain elusive, scientific interest in poltergeists is growing.

AIDS: A Potential Extraterrestrial Weapon?

In a provocative article titled "AIDS - WEAPON OF THE INOPLANETIANS", a doctor named M. Gordon proposes a controversial theory about the origin of the AIDS virus. He questions the natural origin of the virus, suggesting that if it had appeared in earlier centuries, humanity would have already faced extinction. Gordon posits that the virus's rapid spread and its targeted attack on the immune system suggest a deliberate design, possibly by extraterrestrial beings. He argues that the virus's sophisticated structure and its exploitation of the human sexual instinct point towards a form of 'genetic engineering'. Gordon concludes that if AIDS is not a product of human creation, it could be a weapon used by aliens to conquer Earth, and overcoming it would be a victory for humanity against an extraterrestrial civilization.

Other Content

The issue also includes a section titled "YOU ARE ANSWERED", featuring responses from prosecutors regarding the most likely crimes Leningraders might fall victim to (primarily theft). There is also a brief mention of a UFO sighting near Leningrad. A crossword puzzle related to the magazine's themes is included, along with classified ads for room exchanges, rentals, and vehicle sales.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The magazine consistently explores themes of the paranormal, unexplained phenomena, and societal changes in the late Soviet era. There is a clear interest in UFOs, poltergeists, and unconventional theories, such as the extraterrestrial origin of AIDS. The editorial stance appears to be one of open inquiry into these subjects, encouraging reader participation and presenting a mix of scientific, anecdotal, and speculative accounts. The magazine also reflects the economic and social shifts occurring in the USSR, particularly the rise of cooperatives and the challenges of urban development in Leningrad.