**Russian Opposition Leader Sentenced to 18 Years in Prison**
A Moscow military court has handed down a severe sentence to Leonid Volkov, a prominent Russian opposition leader and associate of the late Alexei Navalny. According to reports from Mediazona on June 11, Volkov was sentenced to 18 years in maximum security prison.
**Judged in Absentia**
The ruling was made in absentia, as Volkov was forced to leave Russia in 2019 due to persecution and was subsequently placed on the federal wanted list in 2021. He currently resides in Lithuania, where he has been living under threat of extradition.
**Serious Charges**
The prosecution presented 45 cases against Volkov, citing nine criminal articles. The charges ranged from “discrediting” the Russian military to involvement in allegedly “extremist groups,” and even “rehabilitation of Nazism.” These accusations are often used by the Kremlin to silence opposition voices.
**Ties to Navalny**
Volkov was one of the closest allies of Alexei Navalny, who passed away in a Russian prison in February 2024 under unclear circumstances. Volkov served as Navalny’s chief of staff during his 2018 presidential bid and led his Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) organization until 2023.
**Increased Repression**
The sentencing comes amidst an intensified crackdown on the domestic opposition since Russia’s all-out war against Ukraine in 2022. Volkov himself was charged with “justifying terrorism” and “discrediting” the military in 2022, a charge often used to silence criticism of Moscow’s actions.
**Physical Threats**
Volkov has faced physical threats, including being assaulted at his home in Lithuania in March 2024. A Belarusian suspect was later detained by Polish authorities for allegedly organizing the attack on behalf of Moscow.
**Commentary and Analysis**
The sentencing of Leonid Volkov is a stark example of Russia’s growing repression against opposition voices. As the Kremlin continues to crack down on dissent, it’s essential that independent journalism remains free to report on these events without fear or favor.
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