In Russia, a 65-year-old teacher from Donetsk was sentenced for helping a Ukrainian soldier
In Rostov-on-Don, Russia, a court sentenced Valentyna Zayarna, a 65-year-old teacher from Amvrosiivka, Donetsk region (under Russian occupation), to 12 years in a penal colony.
This was reported by Radio Svoboda.
She was accused of allegedly participating in a “terrorist organization,” attempted possession of explosives, and planning a terrorist act.
The verdict was issued by the Southern District Military Court of Russia, which also fined Zayarna 500,000 rubles— approximately $6,300 USD.
According to the investigation, Zayarna helped Ukrainian Lieutenant Colonel Denys Storozhuk, who reportedly lived with her for over a year.
Russian authorities claim that they were allegedly monitoring a so-called “DPR” deputy, Yaroslav Anik, and planning to blow up his car. Zayarna was accused of receiving a package containing explosive device components, supposedly on Storozhuk’s instructions.
However, Zayarna insisted that she did not know about any plans or “partisan actions” of the Ukrainian soldier. She explained that she had known Storozhuk since before the full-scale invasion, knowing him as Dima — a Ukrainian border guard.
When Mariupol came under attacks in 2022, he allegedly asked her for help after losing his home, and she agreed to shelter him.
