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Surge in 'Punitive Psychiatry' in Russia Amid Ukraine War

2/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Reports of "punitive psychiatry" in Russia have skyrocketed since the onset of the Ukraine war, reminiscent of chilling Soviet-era tactics. Human rights groups recorded 23 cases in 2022, a stark rise from just five annually. Activist Yekaterina Fatyanova shared her harrowing ordeal in a psychiatric facility after speaking out against the military, while the Kremlin remains silent on these grave accusations.

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Story summary

Reports of "punitive psychiatry" in Russia have skyrocketed since the onset of the Ukraine war, reminiscent of chilling Soviet-era tactics. Human rights groups recorded 23 cases in 2022, a stark rise from just five annually. Activist Yekaterina Fatyanova shared her harrowing ordeal in a psychiatric facility after speaking out against the military, while the Kremlin remains silent on these grave accusations.