Russian police on Saturday detained the leader of the opposition Left Front movement and 13 others during an authorized rally in Moscow.
Several hundred activists headed by Sergei Udaltsov braved freezing temperatures and took part in the "Day of Wrath" protest against the government and increasing costs. Many chanted slogans such as "It's time for a change in power" and "No rise in prices."
Authorities had limited the rally to a square in the city's center. Riot police began detentions after the protesters tried to move to the presidential administration building.
A similar anti-government protest was held in Russia's second city St. Petersburg, but no arrests were reported.
Some information for this report was provided by AFP and AP.