A resident of Kabarda-Balkaria, a Russian republic, has been imprisoned for 17 years on charges of high treason for his attempt to enlist in Ukraine's military.
In the heart of the Caucasus region, changes are afoot. Recently, the Supreme Court of Kabarda-Balkaria handed down a 17-year prison sentence to Yury Boyko, a local resident from Prokhladny, following charges of attempted treason and participation in the activities of a terrorist organisation.
The court proceedings, held behind closed doors, came after Yury Boyko was detained in February 2024 while attempting to travel to Russia’s Belgorod region. According to the Federal Security Service (FSB), Boyko had established contact with a member of a paramilitary unit within the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
Prior to his arrest, Boyko worked as a tinsmith for Russian Railways. Reports suggest that he was contacted by the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) in January 2024, leading to the filming of an Oath of Allegiance for the Ukrainian Army, allegedly by the Ukrainian Armed Forces organisation.
The FSB also reported the detention of another resident of Kabarda-Balkaria who was allegedly preparing to commit 'treason'. This comes after the detainee, Erik Konokov, was found guilty of alleged plans to fight on the Ukrainian side and was sentenced to six years in a high-security penal colony. Konokov was charged with attempted treason and incitement to extremism.
Independent journalism in the region is under threat, making it challenging to gather more details about Boyko's intentions regarding an appeal or comments from his lawyers. It is also unclear whether Boyko, following his arrest, thanked the FSB for saving his life and urged young people not to fall for Ukrainian propaganda, as reported by some media outlets.
The sentencing of Yury Boyko serves as a reminder of the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region and the ongoing efforts to maintain security and stability. As the Caucasus region continues to evolve, it is crucial for accurate and unbiased reporting to ensure the public is well-informed.
In response to the challenges faced by independent journalism, a newsroom powered by readers is being built, aiming to provide a platform for objective reporting and fostering a more informed community.
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