Russian opposition politician Maxim Kruglov, deputy leader of the Yabloko party, has been sentenced to seven years in prison for allegedly spreading false information about the Russian army. The charges stem from two Telegram posts he made in 2022 regarding the war in Ukraine. Kruglov denied wrongdoing and argued that the case reflects growing restrictions on free expression in Russia.

During the court hearing, Kruglov said the prosecution effectively criminalizes political disagreement and public dissent. He rejected claims that his posts were motivated by political hatred, stating that his work has always focused on improving life in Russia. The Kremlin maintains that wartime censorship laws are necessary to preserve national unity amid its confrontation with the West.

The verdict comes just months before Russia’s parliamentary elections, in which Yabloko hopes to participate despite its limited political influence. Party leader Nikolai Rybakov condemned the ruling as unjust and urged voters to support Yabloko as a way of opposing current government policies. Kruglov reaffirmed his anti-war stance and expressed hope for a future Russia where differing opinions can be openly expressed.

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