Putin tightens laws with life terms for armed uprising
Vladimir Putin has signed a law increasing penalties for organising and participating in an armed uprising. The new regulations stipulate that the minimum penalty for such actions now ranges from 15 to 20 years' imprisonment, and the maximum has risen to life imprisonment.
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Previously, organising an armed uprising or actively participating in it was punishable by 12 to 20 years in prison, with a possible restriction of freedom for up to 2 years. Now the penalty is from 15 to 20 years, and if the uprising results in death or other serious consequences, a penalty of 15 to 20 years in prison with a fine ranging from £3,800 to £7,600 or life imprisonment is stipulated.
Reduced penalty if you inform the authorities
The law stipulates that a participant in an uprising can avoid criminal liability if they voluntarily and promptly inform the authorities or assist in other ways to "prevent further harm to the interests of Russia." However, this provision may only be applied to individuals who have not been previously convicted.
The new regulations also increase other penalties, including the elimination of the possibility of conditional early release for those convicted of terrorism and armed uprising.
Penalty also for foreigners
Additionally, a new article has been introduced into the Russian Criminal Code. It stipulates a penalty for foreigners or stateless individuals who provide financial, material-technical, advisory, or other support to the opponent in activities directed against the security of Russia. Such acts will be punishable by 10 to 15 years of imprisonment with a fine up to £3,800 or the equivalent of the convicted person's three-year income.
Changes have also been introduced to the article on state treason. Treason is defined as a Russian citizen's siding with the enemy, which means participating in armed conflict or military actions in the ranks of forces opposing Russia. The new version of the law defines the enemy as countries, international or foreign organisations that directly oppose Russia in armed conflict, military actions, or other activities involving the use of weapons and military technology.
Siding with the enemy will be considered voluntary participation in the activities of the opponent's authorities, institutions, enterprises and organisations directed against Russia's security. The sanctions for such a crime remain unchanged, and the maximum penalty can be life imprisonment.
