According to the amendments made to the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation, criminal liability has been established for discrediting volunteer formations, organizations, and individuals who provide assistance to the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, as well as for spreading fake information about them.
If discrediting actions are committed within one year after administrative liability has been imposed on the same grounds, fines ranging from 100,000 to 300,000 rubles or imprisonment for up to 5 years may be imposed.
If such actions cause death by negligence, harm to the health of citizens or their property, mass violations of public order or public safety, or create obstacles to the functioning of life-support facilities, transportation or social infrastructure, credit organizations, objects of energy, industry, or communication, then the punishment will be more severe.
If fake information is spread, the punishment may consist of imprisonment for up to 5 years or a fine ranging from 700,000 to 1.5 million rubles. If the consequences of the actions are serious, the punishment may consist of imprisonment for a term of 10 to 15 years.
Furthermore, liability is provided for repeated illegal entry into important state objects, structures on communications, to special cargoes, or to objects guarded by the National Guard.
These changes were introduced by Federal Law No. 58-FZ of March 18, 2023.
Nadmitov, Ivanov & Partners Law Firm advises on administrative and criminal proceedings, represents and defends the interests of clients in state bodies and courts.
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