Crimean Tatar political prisoner sent to strict regime upon transfer to new colony

Crimean Tatar activist Memet Belyalov, sentenced to 18 years, was transferred to IK-9 in Petrozavodsk (Karelia) and immediately placed in a strict regime barracks (SUS).

The man's relatives report that they have no contact with him and are unable to receive letters from him. Belyalov was previously transferred from a colony in the Novgorod region. There, he was sent to a punishment cell many times, including for not having time to change into a long-sleeved shirt before the colony staff arrived.

Memet Belyalov was convicted on charges of participating in the Islamic party Hizb ut-Tahrir, which is recognized as terrorist in the Russian Federation. Human rights activists noted that members of Hizb ut-Tahrir have not been known to prepare attacks or terrorist acts, and persecution in Russia is based solely on the fact that members of the group held meetings and read religious literature.

Последние новости
The Azerbaijani opposition has linked Karimli's arrest to his growing influence in the West
Politics
The Azerbaijani opposition has linked Karimli's arrest to his growing influence in the West
7 December 2025

Opposition figure Gulu Mammadli stated that the arrest of Ali Karimli, leader of the Popular Front Party of Azerbaijan (PFPA), was expected, but the reasons go beyond simple criticism of the authorities. According to Mammadli, Karimli's publications in major Western media have increased his political significance and visibility abroad, which has caused concern among the Azerbaijani authorities.
Former Golos coordinator wanted by Russia released in Armenia
Human rights
Former Golos coordinator wanted by Russia released in Armenia
7 December 2025

Vladimir Zhilinsky, former coordinator of the Golos voters' rights movement, who was detained in Armenia, has been released. The arrest was related to the activist's status as a wanted activist in Russia.
In the Karachay-Cherkessia Republic, an activist was sentenced in absentia to eight years in prison for criticizing the SVO
Human rights
In the Karachay-Cherkessia Republic, an activist was sentenced in absentia to eight years in prison for criticizing the SVO
6 December 2025

In Karachay-Cherkessia, lawyer and activist Ramazan Mkhtse was sentenced in absentia to eight years in prison for spreading "fakes" about the Russian army.
Kadyrov Threatens Ukraine with Retaliation for Attack on Grozny-City
Politics
Kadyrov Threatens Ukraine with Retaliation for Attack on Grozny-City
6 December 2025

Chechnya's leader, Ramzan Kadyrov, published a video statement following the Ukrainian drone attack on Grozny-City. He said the strike on high-rise buildings in central Grozny makes no tactical sense or sense.