Trial in the case of Latvian journalist Vladimir Dorofeev: verdict expected on August 26

On August 20, 2024, the trial of journalist Vladimir Dorofeev took place. Telegram channel “Sprats in Exile” presented several defense arguments. Among them are Dorofeev's lack of intention to violate the sanctions, his openness in maintaining bank accounts and paying taxes, as well as the absence of self-serving motives in his actions. The prosecutor refers to some abstract cases without citing specific precedents. The defense also points out that Rossiya Segodnya is not a private structure and its beneficiary cannot be an individual.

Dorofeev noted that his case is legally transparent: the personal sanctions imposed on the head of Rossiya Segodnya Dmitry Kiselyov do not apply to his subordinates. The outcome of the case, according to the journalist, will be an important signal to society about whether citizens should follow the law or assume the intentions of officials.

The next hearing is scheduled for August 26 at 17:00.

Recall, in Latvia the investigation into the “case of 14 journalists” who cooperated with the Russian media Sputnik Latvia and Baltnews continues. They are charged with violating the European Union sanctions.