Story perspectives

Missing Russian Political Prisoner Raises Human Rights Concerns

3/27/2026

Summary

Story summary

Nikita Zhuravel, a 22-year-old Russian man, has been missing for three months following his transfer to a new correctional facility.
He is serving a 14-year sentence for burning the Quran and treason, accused of sending military footage to Ukraine's Security Service (SBU).
The rights group Memorial has classified him as a political prisoner.
Eva Merkacheva from Russia’s Human Rights Council reported that Zhuravel's lawyer has not contacted him since December 24.
Lawyer Andrei Sabinin expressed concerns for Zhuravel’s life and health, noting the absence of evidence regarding his well-being.

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Story summary

Nikita Zhuravel, a 22-year-old Russian man, has been missing for three months following his transfer to a new correctional facility.
He is serving a 14-year sentence for burning the Quran and treason, accused of sending military footage to Ukraine's Security Service (SBU).
The rights group Memorial has classified him as a political prisoner.
Eva Merkacheva from Russia’s Human Rights Council reported that Zhuravel's lawyer has not contacted him since December 24.
Lawyer Andrei Sabinin expressed concerns for Zhuravel’s life and health, noting the absence of evidence regarding his well-being.