Russia Releases Journalist Convicted of ‘Justifying Terrorism’ with Fine

Russian journalist Nadezhda Kevorkova was released with a 600,000-ruble ($6,900) fine after being convicted of “justifying terrorism” by a Moscow military court.

Kevorkova, 66, a respected journalist specializing in the Middle East, was initially facing a six-year prison sentence for Telegram posts related to the Taliban and an Islamist raid in 2005. Despite prosecutors pushing for imprisonment, Judge Roman Vladimirov imposed only a fine, citing her time in detention since May 2024.

The verdict followed an appeal from Marat Kabayev, head of a Muslim entrepreneurs’ association and father of Alina Kabaeva, the rumored partner of President Vladimir Putin.

Kevorkova’s lawyer, Kaloi Akhilgov, called the fine a de facto acquittal, as similar cases often result in lengthy prison terms. The journalist’s family celebrated the ruling, with her son, Vasily Polonsky, thanking supporters.

Kevorkova, who has contributed to Novaya Gazeta and Russia Today, pleaded not guilty, arguing her posts were misinterpreted. Though Russia has strengthened ties with the Taliban, the group remains legally designated as a terrorist organization.