Russia: War critic Lev Shlosberg sentenced to 11 years in prison

A Russian court has handed down an 11-year and one-month prison sentence to Lev Shlosberg, a prominent critic of the war in Ukraine. The sentence, to be served in a penal colony, was reported by the exile media outlet "Mediazona." Judge Viktoria Maljamowa found the deputy head of the liberal Yabloko party guilty of, among other charges, "discrediting the Russian armed forces." This charge is frequently used in Russia against government opponents who criticize the country's war against Ukraine. In Moscow, numerous individuals gathered to express their support for Yabloko. According to Yabloko party leader Nikolaj Rybakow, at least 35 people were detained during the demonstration. The party released videos of the arrests. Media outlets reported that police prevented both Yabloko supporters and journalists from approaching the courthouse. Rybakow demanded the release of those detained and an end to intimidation tactics in court.