Colonel Irek Magasumov, a former "Hero of Russia" who last month was sentenced to 11 years in prison over the death of a teen girl in the Russia-occupied Ukrainian city of Luhansk, has rejoined Russian troops invading Ukraine, his wife said on August 5. On August 2, 2023, President Vladimir Putin awarded Magasumov with the Hero of Russia medal for taking part in the Ukraine. Shortly after, Magasumov was arrested and the medal was revoked. Investigators said Magasumov and a friend invited two young women to practice shooting with their pistols in Luhansk, which led to 18-year-old Darya Kiselyova's death. His lawyers said the incident was an accident, but he reportedly agreed to accept the verdict on condition he be allowed to rejoin his military unit, although many details remain murky. To read the original story by RFE/RL's Idel.Realities, click here.
Former 'Hero Of Russia' Returns To War In Ukraine After Receiving Prison Term
Russian President Vladimir Putin (left) after awarding Irek Magasumov the Hero of Russia medal.