Fact Check: 17,721 accused Russian soldiers have already been sentenced.

Fact Check: "17,721 accused Russian soldiers have already been sentenced."

What We Know

The claim that "17,721 accused Russian soldiers have already been sentenced" appears to stem from reports regarding the prosecution of Russian soldiers who have refused to fight in Ukraine. According to Mediazona, an independent Russian outlet, there have been over 20,000 criminal cases opened against service members since the Kremlin's partial mobilization in September 2022. Of these, approximately 17,721 cases have reportedly resulted in convictions. However, it is important to note that these convictions do not necessarily mean that all 17,721 soldiers have been sentenced; rather, it indicates that these cases have been processed through the courts.

Analysis

The figure of 17,721 comes from a report by Mediazona, which is known for its investigative journalism and focus on issues related to Russian military actions and human rights. While Mediazona has a reputation for thorough reporting, it is crucial to consider the context and potential limitations of their data. The report indicates that these cases are primarily related to soldiers refusing deployment rather than a broader scope of military offenses.

Moreover, the context of these convictions is significant. Many of the soldiers involved may have faced coercive circumstances, and the legal processes in military courts in Russia are often criticized for lack of transparency and fairness. Reports from other sources, such as the Kyiv Independent, also highlight the systemic issues within the Russian military justice system, including abuses and harsh penalties for dissent.

In contrast, a report from Reuters discusses a specific case of a soldier being sentenced for desertion, which illustrates the serious legal repercussions faced by soldiers who do not comply with orders. This aligns with the broader narrative of punitive measures taken against military personnel in Russia.

Conclusion

The claim that "17,721 accused Russian soldiers have already been sentenced" is misleading. While it is true that there have been 17,721 cases processed in military courts, the term "sentenced" implies a finality that may not accurately reflect the nature of these cases. Many of these soldiers may have been convicted but not necessarily sentenced in the traditional sense. Therefore, the verdict is False due to the ambiguity surrounding the term "sentenced" and the context of the reported figures.