Russian authorities seek to fine a human rights advocate for criticizing the war in Ukraine

TALLINN, Estonia (AP) — Russian authorities on Wednesday sought to impose a fine on a prominent human rights advocate on trial for criticizing the war in Ukraine, the latest step in a relentless crackdown on activists, independent journalists and opposition figures.

Oleg Orlov, co-chairman of the Nobel Peace Prize-winning human rights group Memorial, has been charged with publicly “discrediting” the Russian military after he wrote a Facebook post denouncing the invasion of Ukraine.

Under a law adopted shortly after the Kremlin sent troops across the border, it is a criminal offense if committed repeatedly within a year; Orlov has been fined twice for antiwar protests before facing criminal charges.

A Moscow court began hearing the case in March, and Orlov faced up to five years in prison if convicted. In closing arguments Wednesday, however, the prosecution asked the court to impose a fine of 250,000 rubles (about $2,500).