Russia jails student for 15 years on treason and terrorism charges over Telegram channel. He attempted suicide before his arrest, in pretrial detention, and during prison transfer.

Rafael Mamedov, a 23-year-old Russian student, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison on treason and terrorism charges related to his Telegram channel, "Svobodnaya Laplandiya," which authorities deemed harmful. This harsh punishment underscores the Kremlin's intolerance for dissent, especially online, as seen in the extreme measures taken against him, including multiple suicide attempts before and during his imprisonment. Such severe consequences highlight the broader implications for free speech and human rights in Russia.