Journalist Vasilisa Shishkina sentenced to 12 years in Russia

Russian journalist Vasilisa Shishkina has been sentenced to 12 years in prison on treason charges. Shishkina, an editor for the regional outlet Nomer Odin in the Republic of Buryatia, received her sentence on May 21 from the Supreme Court of Buryatia. Her sentence was subsequently upheld by a court in Novosibirsk.

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has called on Russian authorities to clarify the circumstances of the prosecution, noting that the trial was held behind closed doors. Reports suggest Shishkina may have been targeted for her professional work, which included reporting on alleged rights violations involving mobilized men from Buryatia following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Legal representatives indicate the case may involve Shishkina publishing content for a media outlet designated as ‘undesirable’ within Russia. Shishkina has been in custody since July 17, 2025.