Russian court sentences Yabloko deputy chair Lev Shlosberg to 11 years
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A court in Pskov, Russia, sentenced Yabloko deputy chairman Lev Shlosberg to 11 years and one month in prison on August 17 for discrediting the Russian army and spreading fake news. Shlosberg, who has been jailed since December 5, 2025, was tried without his three defense lawyers present. The politician refused to plead for leniency, instead condemning the war and calling for a ceasefire and political negotiations.
Key Facts
- Lev Shlosberg was sentenced to 11 years and one month in prison by the Pskov City Court on August 17, 2026.
- Shlosberg has been held in custody since December 5, 2025, and was designated a 'foreign agent' in June 2023.
- The trial proceeded without Shlosberg's three defense lawyers, and the court appointed a state lawyer over his objections.
- In his final statement, Shlosberg called for a ceasefire, political negotiations, and an end to the killing.
The Verdict
The Pskov City Court convicted Lev Shlosberg, deputy chairman of the Yabloko party, of repeatedly discrediting the Russian army and spreading fake news. He was sentenced to 11 years and one month in a penal colony. Shlosberg has been in custody since December 5, 2025, and was added to Russia's 'foreign agent' registry in June 2023. Criminal cases against him were opened in June and December 2025.
Trial Irregularities
The court hearing on August 14 proceeded without Shlosberg's three defense lawyers, two of whom were engaged in other proceedings and one hospitalized. The court refused to postpone the session and appointed a state lawyer despite Shlosberg's objections. Shlosberg did not participate in the proceedings as a result.
Final Statement
In his final statement, Shlosberg did not ask for mercy but spoke about the right to life, the fate of those lost in war, and the persecution of peace advocates. The judge repeatedly interrupted him, demanding he speak 'on the merits of the case.' Shlosberg maintained his anti-war position, calling for a ceasefire, political negotiations, and an end to bloodshed.
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Russian court sentences Yabloko deputy chair Lev Shlosberg to 11 years
