Russia: First prosecution of a journalist for "false information" about the army
The first lawsuit was filed against a journalist for "false information" referring to the army, under the new law. What penalties does it provide.
Russia on Tuesday (March 22nd) launched the first criminal case against a journalist for publishing "false information" about the actions of the Russian army, which is punishable by up to 15 years in prison under the new law.
According to the Athenian and Macedonian News Agency, the Investigative Committee states in its announcement that it "prosecuted the journalist Alexander Nevzorov" who "knowingly published false information about the deliberate bombing of a maternity hospital in Mariupol (south)." the Russian army ".
The law signed by Putin
Regarding the invasion of Ukraine, the Russian authorities have banned the media from using information other than official announcements. It is also forbidden to use words such as "war" and "invasion".
Russian President Vladimir Putin has signed a bill that would impose heavy prison sentences on anyone who publishes "false information" about the military in the midst of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.
The text, which was approved earlier by parliament, also provides for prison sentences for anyone seeking sanctions against Russia.
The sentences could be up to 15 years for anyone who spreads "false information" that has "serious consequences" for the Russian armed forces.
The law also targets ordinary citizens and not just journalists or other media professionals.
