A prominent Russian opposition politician has been handed a lengthy prison sentence following his public criticism of the military campaign in Ukraine. Lev Shlosberg, who holds a senior position within the Yabloko political party, received a conviction on Monday resulting in over 11 years of incarceration.
Authorities charged Shlosberg with spreading information deemed false and damaging to the Russian armed forces. The prosecution argued his statements constituted illegal “discrediting” of military operations, charges that have become increasingly common against vocal critics within Russia.
The timing of the sentencing is significant, arriving just weeks before parliamentary elections scheduled for the following month. The case reflects the broader crackdown on domestic opposition voices and independent speech regarding Russia’s military involvement in Ukraine, with legal mechanisms being employed against political figures who challenge official narratives.
