Oleg Orlov, the co-chair of the Nobel Prize-winning Memorial group, has lost his appeal against a two and a half year prison sentence for criticizing Russia’s actions in Ukraine. Despite his conviction for discrediting the Russian army, Orlov expressed no regrets during his court hearing in Moscow. He compared the Russian judicial system to Nazi Germany, denouncing the lack of justice and law in the country. Orlov remains steadfast in his beliefs, standing by those who are persecuted during mass repression.
His lawyer argued for Orlov’s immediate release, stating that his peaceful expression of opinion should not result in imprisonment. Concerns have been raised about his health and treatment in detention. Orlov’s imprisonment highlights the crackdown on dissenters and rights groups in Russia, including the disbanded Memorial organization. Despite facing adversity, Orlov remains a symbol of resistance against human rights abuses in Russia.