Yury Malev, a man holding dual U.S.-Russian citizenship, has been detained and placed in pre-trial custody in Russia on charges of 'rehabilitating Nazism,' as reported by a St. Petersburg court. Arrested on December 8, Malev faces charges related to publishing two controversial social media posts, according to The Moscow Times.
The court, in its statement on Telegram, indicated that Malev admitted partial guilt to the charges, which could lead to up to five years in prison. The contentious posts allegedly desecrated the St. George ribbon, a revered symbol in Russia associated with military achievements and victories.
This incident has stirred reactions due to the involvement of the St. George ribbon, deeply embedded in Russian culture as a symbol of patriotism, particularly relating to the Great Patriotic War, the Russian term for World War II. The court's statement emphasized that the posts insulted the memory of the war and its defenders.
Malev's status as a dual citizen adds complexity to the case, potentially involving international diplomatic considerations. He is currently remanded in custody until February 7, 2024.
