"Russia Convicts Scientists, Journalist, and Baker for Treason"

Russia has seen a significant rise in treason and espionage cases since 2014, particularly after its annexation of Crimea and the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. High-profile cases include scientists, journalists, and ordinary citizens, often prosecuted in secret trials. Notable cases include bakery worker Oksana Sevastidi, journalist Ivan Safronov, physicist Valery Golubkin, and retired pilot Igor Pokusin. Human rights groups have labeled many of these individuals as political prisoners.