Russian Human Rights Activist Oleg Orlov Loses Appeal Against Imprisonment for Criticising War in Ukraine
Oleg Orlov, a prominent Russian human rights campaigner and co-chair of the now-banned rights group Memorial, has lost his appeal against a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for criticizing the war in Ukraine. The Moscow city court upheld Orlov's conviction for discrediting the Russian army after he condemned the war in an article for French media, accusing President Vladimir Putin of leading the country into fascism.
During the court hearing via videolink from prison, Orlov expressed no remorse and stated that he stands with those who are persecuted in times of mass repression. He criticized Russia's judicial system, likening it to the perversion of justice seen in the Nuremberg trials against Nazi war criminals.
Orlov's defense argued for his immediate release, highlighting that he posed no harm and was unjustly deprived of his freedom for peacefully expressing his opinion. Concerns have been raised about Orlov's health and the conditions of his detention, with complaints filed regarding his treatment.
As a key figure in Memorial, which has advocated against rights abuses in Russia, particularly in the North Caucasus region, Orlov's imprisonment underscores the ongoing crackdown on dissenters, opposition groups, and independent media in the country.
The case has elicited international concern, with organizations and supporters denouncing his conviction and calling for his release. The impact of Orlov's imprisonment extends beyond his personal plight, reflecting broader challenges to human rights and freedom of expression in Russia amidst escalating authoritarian measures.
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