Serhiy Tsyhipa Photo: Wikipedia
Serhiy Tsyhipa, a journalist from Nova Kakhovka, who was convicted by a Russian court in Crimea on charges of espionage, is currently held in a penal colony in Skopin, Ryazan Oblast, Russian Federation. The National Union of Journalists of Ukraine reports that he is being coerced into obtaining a Russian passport as part of pressure tactics during his imprisonment.
Serhiy Tsyhipa is known for his volunteer work and activism in support of Ukraine. He was arrested during the Russian occupation of Crimea and sentenced to 13 years in prison in a widely viewed politically motivated case. Tsyhipa was actively involved in the “Information Self-Defense of Nova Kakhovka” project, highlighting Russian military actions in southern Ukraine.
According to human rights advocates, he has been separated from his family and subjected to propaganda aimed at discrediting his reputation and legitimizing his unlawful detention. Serhiy’s wife, Olena, has stated she has not been able to meet with him since his arrest.
This case serves as another example of human rights violations and freedom of speech infringements in occupied Crimea, where Russian authorities continue practices of political persecution and pressure on activists and journalists.
This case requires attention from the international community and support to restore the rights of Serhiy Tsyhipa and other Ukrainian political prisoners unlawfully held in occupied Crimea.
Source: UNN
