August M
A teenager described as one of Russia’s youngest political prisoners is facing further time behind bars, as his case draws growing international concern.
Arseny Turbin, now 17, was first detained at 15 and is currently serving a five-year sentence on terrorism charges he denies.
According to Onet, rights groups and activists say his case reflects a wider pattern of minors being prosecuted on politically sensitive grounds since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Growing crackdown
The Nobel Peace Prize-winning organisation Memorial has designated Turbin a political prisoner, arguing there is insufficient evidence to justify his conviction.
The group told The Moscow Times that more than 100 teenagers are currently facing similar accusations.
Experts say the rise in such cases points to a broader tightening of control over dissent, particularly among younger Russians.
Case details
Turbin, from the town of Livny in western Russia, had ambitions to study political science before his arrest.
Investigators accused him of links to the Freedom of Russia Legion, a group fighting alongside Ukraine that Moscow classifies as a terrorist organisation.
Court documents cited by Mediazona suggest the case relied in part on online contact and an application he allegedly submitted, though Turbin later said he became afraid and did not pursue it further.
Memorial said its review of the evidence found no proof that he intended to travel to Ukraine or assist the group.
Prison conditions
Turbin has described harsh conditions in detention, including violence from other inmates and significant weight loss.
In a message to his mother, he wrote: “The situation is very difficult, critical… But I will hold on.”
Supporters say he has faced ongoing pressure while in custody, including periods in solitary confinement.
New accusations
Earlier this year, authorities opened a second criminal case against him, alleging involvement in a protest inside a juvenile penal colony.
Turbin denies the claim, saying he was not involved in the incident.
His mother has publicly expressed fears for his safety, suggesting the additional charges are intended to increase pressure on him.
Family fears
She has since moved closer to the penal colony in Perm to maintain regular contact with her son.
According to Onet, she believes the case reflects a broader pattern of targeting young people accused of political dissent.
Turbin’s situation continues to attract attention from rights groups, who argue it highlights deeper concerns about due process and the treatment of minors in Russia’s justice system.
Sources: Onet, Mediazona, The Moscow Times
