Former Russian Deputy Defense Minister Sentenced to 19 Years for Corruption
A military court in Moscow has sentenced former Russian Deputy Defense Minister Pavel Popov to 19 years in prison for corruption. The verdict, reported by Russian state media, concludes a high-profile case involving the embezzlement of over 25 million rubles ($324,000) from the budget of Patriot Park, a massive military-themed complex near Moscow. Investigators found that Popov, who oversaw the park's development, diverted funds to renovate his private properties. In addition to the prison term, he was fined 85 million rubles ($1.1 million). Popov, who served as deputy defense minister from 2013 until his dismissal in June 2024, pleaded not guilty, and his lawyer announced plans to appeal. Two other officials, including the park’s director and Major General Vladimir Shesterov, were also sentenced to prison terms of six and five years, respectively. This case is part of a broader crackdown on abuse of office within Russia’s military leadership, implicating at least a dozen officials tied to former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. The trial highlights ongoing internal purges within the Russian defense establishment amidst the continuing conflict in Ukraine.
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Former Russian Deputy Defense Minister Sentenced to 19 Years for Corruption
A military court in Moscow has sentenced former Russian Deputy Defense Minister Pavel Popov to 19 years in prison for corruption. The verdict, reported by Russian state media, concludes a high-profile case involving the embezzlement of over 25 million rubles ($324,000) from the budget of Patriot Park, a massive military-themed complex near Moscow. Investigators found that Popov, who oversaw the park's development, diverted funds to renovate his private properties. In addition to the prison term, he was fined 85 million rubles ($1.1 million). Popov, who served as deputy defense minister from 2013 until his dismissal in June 2024, pleaded not guilty, and his lawyer announced plans to appeal. Two other officials, including the park’s director and Major General Vladimir Shesterov, were also sentenced to prison terms of six and five years, respectively. This case is part of a broader crackdown on abuse of office within Russia’s military leadership, implicating at least a dozen officials tied to former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu. The trial highlights ongoing internal purges within the Russian defense establishment amidst the continuing conflict in Ukraine.
AP News