Russia Just Banned Memes, But Luckily Putin Memes Are Still Legal Here

Arguably one of the most important life lessons to learn is how to laugh at yourself: There's no fun in taking everything seriously.

It seems Russia missed out on that lesson: The country's internet regulation group, the Roskomnadzor, recently passed a law banning memes across the entire country.

Party. Poopers.

The group officiated the law after Russian artist Valery Sjutkin won a lawsuit against website Lurkmore for using his likeness in a meme.

Under the ruling, it is now illegal to post "disparaging" pictures online that could affect, in any way, a person or business' reputation.

In an official notice, the Roskomnadzor wrote,

These ways of using [celebrities' images] violate the laws governing personal data and harm the honor, dignity and business of public figures.

It is unclear how violators will be punished.

Though the censorship regulation was passed entirely through the Roskomnadzor (instead of, for example, Parliament), we have a feeling Vladmir Putin, president and subject of many a meme himself, will approve.

Luckily, there are no laws against using Putin memes here in the good ol' US of A -- so, enjoy.

Build a bridge, and get over it.

He's just bein' Miley.

Vladimir Boo-hoo-tin.

Dontcha wish your girlfriend was a freak like me?

Real punny.

Citations: Russia has banned memes so here are the best ones of Vladmir Putin (Metro), Russia just made a ton of internet memes illegal (Washington Post)