In a significant development reflecting ongoing political tensions in Russia, a court has sentenced Lev Shlosberg, a senior opposition figure, to over 11 years in prison for his public denunciation of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This verdict comes as the country braces for its upcoming parliamentary election, showcasing a stringent approach towards dissent.
Shlosberg, a prominent member of the Yabloko party, has been charged with “discrediting” and disseminating “false information” regarding the Russian military. The charges were primarily based on his participation in a debate advocating for peace and a controversial post on his Telegram channel. Yabloko, known for its critical stance on the war, is the only official political party in Russia openly opposing the conflict.
Second Trial and Designation as a ‘Foreign Agent’
The Pskov-based trial marks Shlosberg’s second legal battle in two years. Previously, he was labeled a “foreign agent,” a term with negative connotations in Russia that subjects individuals to increased government scrutiny. Shlosberg’s conviction follows his pretrial detention starting in December 2025, highlighting a pattern of actions against Yabloko members under increasing Kremlin pressure.
‘Barbaric’ Sentence and International Reaction
Yabloko has condemned the court’s decision as a “barbaric sentence” imposed for Shlosberg’s “love of the Motherland and calls for a ceasefire.” Amnesty International has also criticized the ruling, describing it as a retaliatory measure for Shlosberg’s exercise of free speech.
Marie Struthers, Amnesty International’s Eastern Europe and Central Asia director, stated, “The Russian authorities must immediately and unconditionally release Lev Shlosberg and quash his conviction,” calling for an end to the persecution of Yabloko members.
Supreme Court’s Decision to Bar Yabloko
On the same day, Russia’s Supreme Court maintained its prior judgment to exclude Yabloko from the forthcoming parliamentary elections. Despite support from young social media users and opposition figures, the court sided with accusations against Yabloko, including campaign violations and unlawful stances on Ukraine.
Yabloko, which had been cleared by the Central Election Commission earlier, has faced backlash from several Kremlin-affiliated parties for its anti-war platform. The Motherland Party’s lawsuit led to the Supreme Court’s decision, further illustrating the restrictive political landscape.
In response to the ruling, Yabloko supporters demonstrating outside the courthouse faced detentions, as noted by Russian media. The party’s leaders, including Nikolai Rybakov and Grigory Yavlinsky, have expressed dismay, vowing to continue their legal fight and emphasizing the growing public desire for peace.
Rybakov stated, “We achieved the main thing: The whole world knows how many people in Russia want peace, want to live normally and to raise children under a peaceful sky in their country.”
