This is the reality of modern Russia: public dissent is increasingly treated as a serious crime. Soon, people may be imprisoned not only for anti-war statements, but also for criticizing internet censorship, corruption, or environmental issues. The goal of the authorities is to ensure that any truth threatening Vladimir Putin’s unchecked power is silenced.

Zen Buddhist Ilya Vasilyev, known as Arvi Hacker, was sentenced to 8 years in prison under charges of “military fakes.” The case was based on a post about Kherson, where his father’s family lives, describing civilian deaths and the rejection of a Christmas ceasefire.

Vasilyev taught programming to teenagers, ran a small Zen center in his apartment, and was preparing to become a monk. According to those close to him, he had always opposed violence and was deeply affected by the war.

Law enforcement first searched his home in 2023, confiscated his devices, and fined him for “discrediting the army.” Later, a criminal case followed. Ultimately, the обвинение relied on a single post expressing sorrow for the dead and a desire for peace.

Authorities labeled it “fake information” and attributed to him political hatred. But accusing a Buddhist who spoke about human suffering and wanted peace of hatred is absurd. His words were not a call to violence, but an expression of compassion.

In today’s Russia, even peacefulness can be treated as a crime. Wishing that people would not die can result in a sentence comparable to serious violent offenses.