Russia bans smoking in restaurants, bars, despite opposition

No more smoking in bars and restaurants in Russia, as a new ban goes into effect Sunday.

As of June 1, smoking is also prohibited in hotels and on trains, and cigarettes can't be displayed in shops or sold in kiosks.

This Moscow resident and non-smoker supports the ban for health reasons.

(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) MOSCOW RESIDENT INNA, SAYING:

"I think smokers should also have some rights, but they shouldn't interfere with my life, the life of a person who never smoked, and no one in my family smoked."

But for Russia's hardened smokers, the ban is nothing short of discrimination.

This Moscow resident and smoker was asked if he supports the ban.

(SOUNDBITE) (Russian) MOSCOW RESIDENT AND SMOKER, VLADIMIR, ASKED WHETHER HE SUPPORTS THE LAW, SAYING:

"Not really, then there should be special smoking places everywhere so people would also be able to smoke."

Thirty-nine percent of Russia's adult population smokes, one of the highest rates in t