Human Rights Campaigner Oleg Orlov Speaks Out from Detention

Oleg Orlov, a Russian human rights advocate, reaffirmed his criticism of the war in Ukraine and mass repression in Russia during a court hearing. Serving a two-and-a-half-year sentence, Orlov's health and treatment in detention remain major concerns for his supporters and legal team.

Oleg Orlov, a veteran Russian human rights campaigner, attended a court hearing on Thursday and stood by his outspoken denunciation of 'mass repression' in Russia. Orlov, 71, is serving a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for discrediting the Russian army by protesting the war in Ukraine and writing an article accusing President Vladimir Putin of leading the country into fascism.

'I have no remorse or regrets. I am in the right place at the right time,' Orlov stated to a packed Moscow courtroom via video link from a detention center 750 km (470 miles) away. 'When there is mass repression in the country, I am there alongside those who are persecuted, and in this way I help...' he continued before the sound was abruptly cut from the feed.

Supporters of Orlov have voiced concerns regarding his health, while his defence team has filed complaints asserting that his detention and transportation conditions are cruel and degrading.

(With inputs from agencies.)