More than 10,000 legal proceedings have been opened in Russia for 'discrediting' the army since March 2022, highlighting the Kremlin's repression of anti-war voices amid the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. Independent media outlet Mediazona reported that the number of cases has surged, reflecting the government's crackdown on dissent and the dissemination of information deemed unfavorable to the military. As of August 2023, the total number of cases has exceeded 10,000, with individuals facing fines and potential prison sentences for speaking out against the war.
In a related development, Ukraine has made significant territorial gains in the Kursk region, claiming control over 1,000 square kilometers of Russian territory. Ukrainian military officials announced that their forces have advanced between one and three kilometers in various areas, taking control of 74 towns. President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine's operations are focused on protecting its citizens rather than annexing territory, asserting that the incursions are a legitimate response to Russian aggression.
The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry reiterated that military actions will cease if Russia agrees to a 'just peace' and ends its invasion of Ukraine. The ongoing conflict has seen thousands of individuals in Russia face severe repercussions for their opposition to the Kremlin, with reports indicating that there are currently 762 political prisoners in the country. The situation remains tense as both sides continue to engage in fierce battles along the border.
