A Russian military court has sentenced former Moscow municipal deputy Alexey Gorinov to an additional three years in prison on charges of “justifying terrorism.” This new sentence comes on the heels of Gorinov’s previous seven-year conviction in 2022 for disseminating “disinformation” about the military, making him the first person in Russia to receive jail time under such accusations. Rather than serve his new sentence concurrently, the court determined Gorinov would serve a total of five extra years in a maximum-security facility, raising serious concerns about his treatment and the political motivations behind these charges.
The latest “justifying terrorism” allegations stem from statements Gorinov reportedly made to fellow inmates regarding the 2022 bombing of the Crimean Bridge and discussions about Ukraine’s Azov and Kraken regiments, which Russia classifies as terrorist organizations. Gorinov asserts that he was provoked into these conversations by other inmates, and he firmly contends that his comments cannot be construed as justifying any acts of terrorism. The legal landscape in Russia has evolved dramatically amid the ongoing conflict, with authorities increasingly targeting dissenters and employing stringent measures to suppress critical voices.
During Gorinov’s trial, peculiarities emerged with testimony from prosecution witnesses whose accounts appeared suspiciously uniform, raising questions about the integrity of the proceedings. Reports from independent Russian media outlet Mediazona suggested that prison officials may have orchestrated the incrimination by planting secret microphones in Gorinov’s cell, instructing inmates to engage him in politically charged discussions for the purpose of documentation. This suggests a systematic crackdown on political dissent and highlights the oppressive environment faced by those who dare to speak out against the government.
Gorinov’s legal troubles have garnered international attention, reflecting the broader issues of human rights abuses in Russia. His trial commenced on November 27, and prior to the initial hearing, he took a defiant stance by displaying a sign that read, “Stop killing. Stop the war.” On the day of the verdict, Gorinov revealed the prison administration had classified him as someone prone to acts of terrorism, further complicating his already precarious situation. The harsh treatment he has experienced raises critical questions about the fairness of trials in politically charged cases within the country.
Since beginning his imprisonment, Gorinov’s health has significantly deteriorated. Reports indicate he was receiving treatment for pneumonia at the time of his recent comments, underlining the physical toll of his confinement. Mikhail Biryukov, a close friend and lawyer for Gorinov, expressed concern over his condition, describing Gorinov as looking “very bad” during a recent visit. However, he also noted Gorinov’s resilience, indicating that despite the dire circumstances, the former deputy remained optimistic even in the face of adversity.
The case of Alexey Gorinov represents a troubling chapter in Russia’s ongoing repression of dissent and is emblematic of the chilling climate for free speech in the country. As the conflict continues, the government’s response to any form of criticism is becoming increasingly severe, placing individuals like Gorinov at grave risk. His story has sparked conversations about the importance of standing against authoritarianism and the need for international solidarity in advocating for human rights and freedom of expression in Russia.