Stalinism back in Russia. Ukrainian patriot sentenced to 20 years in jail, associate – to 10
Today Russia’s court has rendered a verdict to film director Oleg Sentsov and activist Alexander Kolchenko.
They were tried for an ‘attempt to organize a “cell of ‘Right Sector’ [Ukrainian right-wing organisation] in Crimea”.
The men are found guilty of two arson attacks and intentions to blow up the monument to Lenin. After the verdict, Oleg and Alexander started singing the national anthem of Ukraine.
The trial was held in the Russian city of Rostov-on-Don, The case was considered by North Caucasus District Military Court. The prosecutor asked 23 years of imprisonment for Sentsov and 12 – for Kolchenko.
The case of Sentsov and Kolchenko is based on testimony given under torture.
“I’m not going to ask you for anything, everything is clear. Occupiers’ court cannot be fair by definition. There is othing personal,” Oleg said said in his final statement.
Russian human rights center ‘Memorial’ has recognised Sentsov and Kolchenko prisoners of conscience.
