Russian prosecutors are seeking an eight-year sentence in a penal colony for Alexandra Skochilenko, a lesbian artist who engaged in a supermarket protest criticizing the country’s military actions in Ukraine. Skochilenko, known as Sasha, faces charges related to spreading knowingly false information about the use of the armed forces and the government’s authority, a crime punishable by up to 10 years in a penal colony.
In March 2022, Skochilenko switched price tags at a Perekrestok supermarket with stickers bearing anti-war messages, accusing the armed forces of genocide, labeling Putin a liar, and describing Russia as a fascist state. She stated, “My great-grandfather did not take part in the Great Patriotic War for Russia to become a fascist state and attack Ukraine.”
Despite suffering from bipolar disorder and other serious physical conditions, Skochilenko has been held in custody since her arrest in April 2022. Prosecutors argue that Skochilenko knowingly spread false information due to alleged political and ideological hatred. They presented expert witnesses claiming that Russia was not a fascist state and that the government’s actions in Ukraine were just.
Skochilenko, in her defense, asserted that her motivation was not hatred but compassion, stating, “I just wanted to stop the war.” She emphasized that her actions aimed for peace and prosperity, similar to the desires of every individual. Skochilenko’s health conditions, including bipolar disorder, a cyst in the right ovary, heart disease, PTSD, and celiac disease, have been noted in the case.
Skochilenko is scheduled to appear in court again on November 13, where her fate hangs in the balance.