Metro 2033 creator Dmitry Glukhovsky sentenced to 8 years in prison
Metro 2033 creator Dmitry Glukhovsky has been sentenced to eight years in prison in Russia for posting what the government calls “fake news” about the country’s invasion of Ukraine. Glukhovsky, who has been in exile and is not currently in Russia, was tried in absentia for criticizing Russia’s actions against Ukraine, and for alleging that the Russian armed forces have committed mass killings and rape in the region.
Glukhovsky, who is known for the Metro video game series and as an author, was found guilty of spreading “false information,” including allegations that Russia bombed Ukrainian homes, schools, hospitals, and committed mass killings and rape against the local population.
Though Glukhovsky has posted from outside Russia, he was tried and placed on a wanted list. He was subsequently labeled as a “foreign agent” in October 2021.
Glukhovsky was later charged after posting a controversial post referencing Russian president Vladimir Putin. The post, which was shared by Glukhovsky on social media and on his website, suggested that Putin was responsible for the deaths of more than 300 people, based on a quote from a French journalist who had covered the conflict.
“The article contained information that, according to the indictment, was false and aimed to deliberately mislead the public and discredit the Russian Armed Forces,” the BBC reports.
Glukhovsky joins a long list of artists and politicians targeted by Russia for their opposition stances. His controversial social media post is the sole reason for his prosecution, as he is a notable author and journalist who previously worked as an editor for Gosteleradio and supported opposition leader Navalny.
Glukhovsky is currently in exile and not in Russia.
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