Georgian National Sentenced in Absentia
A Russian court has sentenced Georgian national Giorgi Partsvania, 35, to 28 years in prison in absentia. The verdict, announced on December 12, 2025, found Partsvania guilty of multiple charges related to his involvement in fighting on the Ukrainian side against Russian forces. Russia's Investigative Committee stated that Partsvania has been placed on an international wanted list.
Extensive Charges Filed by Russian Authorities
The charges against Partsvania are extensive and include 'mercenary activity,' 'illegally crossing Russia's border,' 'illegal acquisition, transportation, carrying, and storage of firearms and ammunition,' 'illegal possession and transport of explosive devices,' 'weapons smuggling,' and 'committing a terrorist act as part of an organized group.' The sentence specifies that he is to serve nine years in prison, with the remainder of the term in a maximum-security penal colony, and also includes a fine of 2 million Russian rubles.
Allegations of Involvement in Belgorod Attack
According to the Russian Investigative Committee, Partsvania's alleged activities date back to between 2014 and 2017, when he reportedly joined a paramilitary unit in Ukraine fighting against the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk people's republics. He is further accused of returning to Ukraine in late February 2022, rejoining a paramilitary unit, and participating in 'hostilities' against the Russian military until September 2025.
A key accusation states that in August 2024, Partsvania, as part of an 'organized group with other Ukrainian servicemen,' illegally crossed into Russia's Belgorod region. There, he allegedly took part in an attack on the village of Poroz in the Graivoron municipal district, where investigators claim he illegally entered homes and detained two civilians.
International Legal Context
The sentencing of Giorgi Partsvania is part of a broader trend of Russia intensifying prosecutions in absentia against foreign fighters involved in the conflict in Ukraine, often labeling them as 'mercenaries' or 'terrorists.' Human rights activists, however, contend that under international law, combatants captured during military operations should be considered prisoners of war and cannot be prosecuted merely for participating in military operations unless they have committed war crimes.
6 Comments
Coccinella
The harshness of the 28-year sentence certainly sends a strong message to others contemplating joining the conflict. Still, the lack of a physical defense and the political context make it difficult for many to view this as impartial justice.
Habibi
This is a baseless political persecution designed to deter support for Ukraine. Absolutely disgusting.
Bella Ciao
This sentence highlights the deep divide in how different nations interpret international law regarding conflict. While Russia sees a clear crime, many human rights groups will point to the combatant status as a crucial distinction.
Muchacha
Sham trial! This is pure propaganda and an intimidation tactic against volunteers.
anubis
International law states he's a POW if he's a combatant. Russia simply ignores all established rules.
Noir Black
Attacking Russian soil and detaining civilians cannot go unpunished. This was the right decision.