Injection drug use has become the leading cause of HIV transmission in Russia, Rianovosti reports. In response, the Russian government has increased funding of its HIV/AIDS initiative. Critics aren't convinced of Russia's commitment because the government hasn't adopted internationally proven treatments for opiate addiction, such as methadone or needle exchange programs. In 2009, the government estimated 530,000 people are living with the virus in Russia, but the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS estimated double that amount.

To read the Rianovosti article, click here.