Ukrainian Pediatrician Sentenced for Criticizing War

Dr. Nadezhda Buyanova, a 68-year-old pediatrician in Moscow, has been sentenced to 5 1/2 years in prison for allegedly spreading false information about the Russian military during a medical appointment. The accusation stemmed from a complaint by a mother whose son was a patient, claiming Buyanova labeled the mother’s deceased husband, a Russian soldier, as a legitimate target for Ukrainian forces. Despite her denial and claims of innocence, the court sentenced her based on a lack of substantial evidence, reflecting the increasing repression of dissent in Russia amidst the ongoing Ukraine conflict. This case is indicative of a broader trend, with over 1,000 individuals prosecuted for anti-war statements since the conflict escalated, as noted by rights organizations. Supporters of Buyanova expressed their outrage in court, highlighting the chilling effect of such prosecutions on free expression in Russia. The situation underscores the heightened risks faced by those who criticize the government's narrative regarding the war in Ukraine.