**Russian Court Sentences British Volunteer to 19 Years in Prison**
A Russian court has sentenced a 22-year-old British volunteer, James Scott Rhys Anderson, who was fighting for Ukraine in Russia’s Kursk Oblast, to 19 years in prison. The court convicted him on charges of “terrorism” and “mercenarism”.
Anderson was captured by Russian forces in November 2024. His case was considered in a closed session, and he pleaded guilty. However, it is unclear whether his confession was forced.
Russia often portrays foreign volunteers fighting for Ukraine as “mercenaries” and claims they are not entitled to protection as prisoners of war. The British volunteer will spend the first five years of his sentence in prison and the rest in a high-security penal colony.
**International Reaction**
The sentencing has sparked concern among international leaders. President Volodymyr Zelensky, French President Emmanuel Macron, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer might visit Washington to present a “united front” on peace in Ukraine.
US President Donald Trump‘s decision to freeze military aid supplies to Ukraine has been met with criticism from Democrats, who claim that he is aligning himself with Vladimir Putin rather than long-standing partners and allies.
**Ukraine Conflict**
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues. Ukrainian forces have carried out a strike using drones, according to a statement. Russian forces have suffered 1,250 casualties in the past day alone.
Oil and gas revenues have dropped significantly in recent months, from 945.6 billion rubles ($10.5 billion) in February 2024 to 771.3 billion rubles ($8.6 billion) last month.
**International Support for Ukraine**
Most respondents (64%) want France to continue providing assistance to Ukraine. However, there are concerns about the future of military aid supplies from the US and Germany.
The painstakingly negotiated deal between the US, Germany, and other European countries to provide military aid to Ukraine remains uncertain due to a public clash between Trump and Zelensky.
**Other Developments**
Ukraine’s air defense has shot down 115 drones over several regions. Russian forces have suffered significant casualties in recent days.
Shares in Eutelsat surged by 70% after investor confidence increased that European leaders would increase military support for Ukraine.