Russian Political Leader Sentenced for Anti-War Stance: A Battle Within

Lev Shlosberg, deputy chairman of Russia’s Yabloko party, received an 11-year sentence for condemning the war in Ukraine. Accused of discrediting Russia's armed forces, Shlosberg insists on his innocence and describes the trial as politically motivated. Media outlets have estimated Russian military casualties to be significantly higher than officially reported figures.

Lev Shlosberg, a senior member of Russia's liberal Yabloko party, has been sentenced to 11 years and one month in a penal colony for his open condemnation of the Ukraine war. Shlosberg, the party's deputy chairman, faced accusations of discrediting Russia's military forces and disseminating false information.

During his trial in Pskov, Shlosberg maintained his innocence, deeming it a political trial, and called for an immediate ceasefire to the 4-1/2-year conflict. This verdict comes after Russia's Supreme Court's decision to ban Yabloko from a forthcoming parliamentary election.

Mediazona and BBC Russian service report a significantly higher death toll among Russian military personnel than official figures suggest, indicating casualties surpassing 350,000. The Kremlin claims its military actions defend against NATO threats, a claim rejected by Ukraine and its allies.