Russia on Wednesday introduced harsh jail terms for those who urge anti-security action, a text adopted by lawmakers as Moscow cracks down on all voices opposing its military offensive in Ukraine.
(Also read: Vladimir Putin’s new plans in Ukraine after the conquest of Lugansk)
The law, which provides for penalties of up to seven years in prison for this crime, was voted on Wednesday by the State Dumathe lower house of the Russian Parliament, which also toughened penalties for espionage and cases of “confidential collaboration with foreigners.”
Officially, these legal texts seek to “protect the national interests of Russia.” They are “an adequate and timely response to the challenges facing our country,” Deputy Vasiliy Piskaryov of the ruling United Russia party said in a statement.
increased sentences
Under the new provisions, publicly urging action against the
Russian security will now be punished with between two to four years in prison.
(It may interest you: Ukraine: Russia concentrates its attacks on Donetsk; they ask to evacuate the area)
The sentence can be increased to five years if such appeals are made in the media and to seven if made by an organized group. Giving the enemy information “that could be used against the Russian armed forces” is punishable by up to 20 years in prison.
Cases of “confidential collaboration with foreigners” will be punished with up to 8 years in prison.
Since the beginning of the Russian military operation in Ukraine on February 24, the Russian authorities have intensified their crackdown on voices critical of the offensive.
They have blocked independent media and social networks, and passed laws that punish with heavy prison terms any form of criticism that tarnishes the image of the army.
Several Russians — both opponents and ordinary citizens — have already been jailed on such charges while awaiting trial.
INTERNATIONAL WRITING
*With information from AFP
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