The number of convictions for "terrorist" offenses in Russia has increased by 58%.
In the first half of 2026, the number of convictions for terrorism-related offenses in Russia increased by 58% compared to the same period last year. Human rights activists from the First Department, together with Parubets Analytics, studied judicial statistics and identified the main trends in prosecutions.
Rising number of convictions and repression "for words"
According to researchers, Russian courts have handed down 1145 verdicts since the beginning of the year. 1234 people received actual prison sentences, a 38% increase over the 2025 figures. Furthermore, 243 Ukrainian citizens were among those convicted.
The main trend this year has been criminal prosecutions "for words" and the mass prosecution of citizens under the article on "calls to terrorism" (Article 205.2 of the Russian Criminal Code). More than half of all defendants were convicted specifically for public statements. At the same time, the number of those convicted directly under the article on "terrorist acts" has decreased by half. In particular, the human rights project "Memorial" noted that in 35% of the cases studied, clear signs of political persecution were evident.
Associated charges and harsh punishments
In addition to "terrorist" offenses, security forces regularly charged defendants with "extremism" charges, as well as treason and espionage. The vast majority of cases resulted in actual prison sentences, and in one case, the courts imposed life imprisonment.
Acquittals in this category of cases are virtually nonexistent. Criminal prosecutions were dropped in only four cases: three defendants died before sentencing, and one demonstrated "active remorse." Although the law allows for financial penalties, only six defendants were fined. Furthermore, in 34 cases over the past six months, courts ordered compulsory treatment.
Which courts make decisions?
As a result, the primary burden of hearing such cases fell on just four military courts, which issued 86,3% of all verdicts nationwide. The Southern District Military Court ranked first, with 425 verdicts, due to its handling of cases from the occupied regions of Ukraine.
In addition, another 286 sentences were handed down by the 2nd Western District Military Court, 156 decisions were made by the Central District Military Court, and 121 sentences were handed down by the 2nd Eastern District Military Court.