Russian student jailed for 10 days for pro-Ukraine WiFi network name

A Moscow court has sentenced a student from Moscow State University to 10 days in jail for changing his wifi network’s name to the pro-Kyiv slogan ‘Slava Ukraini’ (‘Glory to Ukraine’).

According to Ria-Novosti news agency, the court deemed this act as a ‘public display of Nazi symbolism or symbols of extremist organisations.’

The student’s action came to the attention of authorities when a police officer reported the altered network name. Since the commencement of the Russian offensive in February 2022, officials have implemented widespread legal measures against individuals expressing public dissent or support for Ukrainian forces. Thousands have faced prison terms or fines for actions perceived as criticism of the military action or endorsement of Ukrainian efforts.

Last month, Russian opposition leader and prominent critic of President Putin, Alexei Navalny, died at the Arctic prison colony where he was serving a 19-year term. Officials stated that Navalny ‘felt unwell’ after a walk and ‘almost immediately lost consciousness.’ Many world leaders condemned his death and held Russian President Putin accountable.

Over 400 detained on Navalny commemoration gatherings

Over 400 individuals had been arrested in 32 Russian cities for their involvement in gatherings commemorating the his death. According to OVD-Info, a rights organisation monitoring assembly freedoms in Russia, the highest numbers of detentions took place in St. Petersburg and Moscow, where Navalny had garnered substantial support in the past.