Long Sentences for Azov Regiment Members Heighten Ukraine-Russia Tensions

A Russian court sentenced 12 Azov regiment members from Ukraine to lengthy prison terms, labeling them 'terrorists.' Ukraine rejects this characterization, viewing Azov as national heroes. The verdicts are controversial as some sentences were given in absentia. The regiment dissociated from its radical origins and is now part of Ukraine's National Guard.

A Russian military court has issued significant prison sentences to 12 members of Ukraine's Azov regiment, accused of 'terrorist activity' and power seizure during the early stages of the war. The members received sentences ranging from 13 to 23 years, as reported by Russian state media.

Independent news website Mediazona reported that 11 additional individuals, already returned to Ukraine through prisoner exchanges, were sentenced in absentia. This group included nine women who had served as army cooks. Azov's leadership expressed intentions to appeal and highlighted claims of coerced testimonies, although these remain unverified.

Ukraine disputes Russia's designation of the Azov regiment as a terrorist entity. Once founded by nationalist Andriy Biletskiy, Azov is now integrated into Ukraine's National Guard and is seen by many Ukrainians as a symbol of defiance, particularly for their role in Mariupol's defense in 2022.

(With inputs from agencies.)