Court in Lviv sentences 12 pro‑Russian fighters to 15 years
A court in Lviv sentenced 12 pro-Russian fighters to 15 years in prison. Ukrainian citizens volunteered to fight against their own country and joined militias in Donetsk and Luhansk.
"Following a public accusation by the Lviv Regional Prosecutor's Office, 12 Ukrainian citizens were found guilty. They were convicted of treason, participating in a terrorist organisation, and engaging in armed groups not sanctioned by law" announced the regional prosecutor's office in Lviv on Monday.
According to the Lviv Regional Prosecutor's Office, the convicted individuals are residents of areas occupied by Russia in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions. In 2022, after the onset of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, they joined hostile formations, serving in various roles, including commanding positions.
The activities of the fighters
The convicted held positions such as chief of staff, mortar unit commander, snipers, and shooters. They received uniforms, weapons, and ammunition, and underwent combat tactics training. During their service, they carried out missions against the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
The prosecutor's office emphasised that the convicted not only took part in the fighting but also issued orders to subordinate soldiers. Their tasks also included ensuring the safety of Russian forces in the occupied territories.