MOSCOW
A Russian court sentenced journalist Darya Shipacheva to twelve years in a penal colony on treason charges. The trial was held entirely behind closed doors. Reports indicate the charges came from an alleged money transfer to Ukraine. Shipacheva pleaded guilty, which secured her the minimum sentence. Video from the courtroom showed her looking shocked at the harsh verdict. Press freedom groups note that Russia has heavily increased censorship and pressure on independent media workers since the conflict in Ukraine began in twenty twenty-two.
