**Ukraine’s Former President Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison**
In a significant development, Ukraine’s former pro-Kremlin President Viktor Yanukovych has been sentenced in absentia to 15 years in prison for inciting desertion and organizing illegal border crossings. The Prosecutor General’s Office announced the verdict on April 28.
This is not the first time Yanukovych has faced conviction by a Ukrainian court. In 2019, he was sentenced to 13 years in prison for high treason and complicity in waging war of aggression against Ukraine. The new sentence brings the total length of his convictions to 28 years.
**Context and Background**
Yanukovych’s presidency, which lasted from 2010 to 2014, was marked by corruption and authoritarianism. He drew Ukraine closer to Russia, but his refusal to sign an association agreement with the European Union in November 2013 triggered mass protests known as the EuroMaidan Revolution.
The revolution led to Yanukovych’s ousting from power, and he subsequently fled to Russia. The Kremlin had reportedly considered reinstalling him in a leadership role if Russian forces had successfully seized Kyiv at the start of its full-scale invasion in 2022.
**Reaction and Analysis**
The sentencing of Yanukovych is a significant development in Ukraine’s efforts to hold its former leaders accountable for their actions. It also highlights the country’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, even against those who have held power.
As Anna Fratsyvir, a news editor at the Kyiv Independent, notes: “This verdict sends a strong message that Ukrainian justice will not be deterred by the fact that Yanukovych is now in exile and enjoys the protection of Russia.”
The timing of the sentencing also comes as Ukraine continues to face aggression from Russia. The country’s military spending has grown by 2.9% in 2024, reaching $64.7 billion, roughly 43% of Russia’s total expenditure.
**Related Developments**
In other news, Czech Defense Minister Jana Cernochova reiterated that the initiative already supplied 1.5 million rounds of various calibers in 2024 and has enough funds to continue until this fall.
Unidentified drones targeted the Kremniy-El plant, a major facility specializing in microelectronics for Russia’s military-industrial complex, said Andrii Kovalenko, an official at Ukraine’s National Security and Defense Council.
The number includes 1,160 casualties that Russian forces suffered over the past day. The Ukrainian military also reported successful operations by operators of the 73rd Naval Special Operations Center in the Kursk region.
**International Reaction**
U.S. President Donald Trump voiced frustration with Russia on April 27, urging President Vladimir Putin to stop attacks. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer criticized U.S. President Donald Trump‘s handling of the situation, calling for a more decisive approach.
The international community continues to condemn Russian aggression against Ukraine, with many countries providing support and aid to the country in its time of need.
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