A deputy of the Okhtyrsky District Council of Sumy Oblast, who during active hostilities in Sumy Oblast openly supported the occupiers and called on local residents not to resist, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison. The SBU press service reported this on January 16.
The figurehead, who represented the banned pro-Russian party “Our Land,” actively cooperated with the Russian military after the capture of the city of Trostyanets. He not only supported the aggressors and offered them assistance, but also provided them with food, helped restore power to the captured buildings, and helped adjust maps for combat operations.
During the occupation, the deputy openly called on the local population to support the Russian military, distributed propaganda materials on social networks, and even called for changing the state borders of Ukraine.
After Trostianets was liberated by the Armed Forces of Ukraine, the traitor tried to hide within the community, hoping to avoid justice. However, SBU officers located him and detained him.
Despite all the evidence collected, the man did not admit his guilt. However, a detailed investigation conducted by the SBU with the support of the regional prosecutor's office completely refuted his claims.
The court found the deputy guilty under two articles of the Criminal Code of Ukraine:
- Part 2 of Article 111 — high treason committed under martial law;
- Part 1 of Article 436-2 — justification of the armed aggression of the Russian Federation and glorification of its participants.
The punishment includes 15 years in prison with confiscation of property.
This case is yet another example of the fact that treason will not go unpunished, especially in times of war. The court's decision demonstrates the determination of Ukrainian law enforcement and justice in the fight against those who undermine national security and collaborate with the aggressor.
