Putin signs law imposing harsher penalties on armed uprisings
Vladimir Putin signed a law increasing the penalties for organizing and participating in an armed uprising. The new regulations stipulate that the minimum penalty for such actions now ranges from 15 to 20 years of imprisonment, with the maximum penalty increasing to life imprisonment.
Many of the reports provided by Russian media or government representatives are elements of propaganda and are part of the information warfare conducted by the Russian Federation.
Previously, organizing or actively participating in an armed uprising was punishable by 12 to 20 years in prison, with a possible freedom restriction of up to 2 years. Now, the penalty is from 15 to 20 years, and if the uprising results in death or other serious consequences, the penalty ranges from 15 to 20 years in prison with a fine of $4,800 to $9,600, or life imprisonment.
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 contribute in other ways to "prevent further harm to the interests of Russia." However, this provision may only apply 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 was 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 opponents in activities directed against the security of Russia. Such acts will be punishable by 10 to 15 years of imprisonment with a fine of up to $4,800 or the equivalent of the convicted person's three-year income.
Changes were also introduced to the article on state treason. Treason is defined as a Russian citizen 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 organizations 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 organizations directed against Russia's security. The sanctions for such a crime remain unchanged, and the maximum penalty can be life imprisonment.
