Russia jails former Kursk governor in Ukraine incursion-linked graft probe
Al Jazeera·2h ago·Neutral
What Happened
Russian court sentenced former Kursk governor Alexei Smirnov to 14 years in prison Monday for accepting bribes from construction firms. Smirnov, 52, pleaded guilty to failing to ensure strong border fortifications due to corruption. Ukrainian troops launched surprise offensive in August 2024, capturing territory partly due to substandard defences. Court imposed 400 million ruble fine and 10-year work ban. Smirnov became governor May 2024, resigned December 2024.
Key Entities
Alexei SmirnovKurskRussiaUkraineRussian courtRoman StarovoitVladimir PutinNorth Korean troops