Russian Opposition Faces Persecution Amidst Ukraine Conflict

Maxim Kruglov, a deputy leader of Russia's liberal Yabloko party, is embroiled in a legal battle after being charged with spreading misinformation about the Russian army. Kruglov, standing trial on allegations stemming from his social media posts, faces a potential 10-year imprisonment if convicted.

The charges relate to two of Kruglov's 2022 Telegram posts highlighting incidents in Mariupol and Bucha, Ukraine. These areas have been controversial due to alleged war crimes, with Russia and Ukraine exchanging blame for civilian casualties.

Yabloko, historically a significant liberal force in Russia, continues to resist President Vladimir Putin's Ukrainian invasion and denounces laws targeting individuals advocating for peace. The party is also contending with internal repression, as seen in the cases of its other members facing similar charges.

(With inputs from agencies.)