Sham Trials: Conviction of 23 Ukrainians Raises International Outcry

Russia on Wednesday convicted 23 Ukrainians on terrorism charges in a military court trial criticized as a violation of international law. The defendants included elite Azov brigade fighters. Human rights groups called the trial a sham, alleging abuse and mistreatment of prisoners in Russian custody.

In a military court trial on Wednesday, Russia convicted 23 Ukrainians on terrorism charges related to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, prompting criticism from Kyiv and international observers who view the trial as a violation of international law.

The defendants included current and former fighters from Ukraine's elite Azov brigade, which Russia brands as a terrorist organization. Additionally, rights activists claim the defendants were subjected to severe abuse behind bars, which aligns with broader reports of mistreatment of Ukrainian prisoners in Russian detention.

Human rights groups have condemned the trial as a sham, with critics calling for international intervention to address the alleged violations of the Geneva Conventions and to bring perpetrators of these abuses to justice.

(With inputs from agencies.)