Criminal case opened against editor-in-chief of Russian border-region outlet Pepel on charges of justifying terrorism

The Federal Security Service (FSB) of Russia has initiated a criminal case against Nikita Parmenov, editor-in-chief of the outlet Pepel, for allegedly justifying terrorism. According to the FSB, Parmenov expressed support for the Russian Volunteer Corps and the "Freedom of Russia" Legion, both of which are classified as terrorist organizations in Russia.

The FSB's statement does not provide the specific statements made by Parmenov, when they were made, or their links. The security service further revealed that Parmenov is designated as a "foreign agent" and is located in one of the South Caucasus countries. Pepel claimed that the case may have been initiated by a livestream on the YouTube channel Vremya Nakazhet "Time Will Punish," where Parmenov was questioned about his stance on volunteers fighting for Ukraine.

During the livestream, Parmenov stated that he could not condemn Russians who join the volunteer units, but also unequivocally condemned those who shelled civilians in the Belgorod region. The outlet further noted that a pro-war Telegram channel, Zapiski Veterana "A Veteran’s Notes," had previously accused Parmenov of supporting the Russian Volunteer Corps and the "Freedom of Russia" Legion, and alleged that they had edited the livestream, removing the part where Parmenov condemned the civilian shelling.