A Moscow paediatrician has found herself at the centre of a storm after being sentenced to 5-1/2 years in a penal colony for comments linked to the ongoing war in Ukraine. Nadezhda Buyanova, 68, was convicted following accusations made by the mother of a patient, leading a dozen medical professionals to appeal directly to President Vladimir Putin for her release.
Doctors Rally for Buyanova
A video compilation published by Echo, a Russian independent radio station, features several doctors denouncing the verdict as “blatant lawlessness and cruelty.” They argue that the charges against Buyanova are not only far-fetched but also disproportionate to her dedication to saving lives.
- One doctor questioned: “What danger to society is a person who has dedicated her life to saving the lives of our children?”
- Another added: “We demand an immediate end to this shameful business and the freeing of Nadezhda Fyodorovna Buyanova.”
Kremlin’s Silence
So far, the Kremlin has remained tight-lipped about Buyanova’s case, amid rising concerns over a culture of informing on fellow citizens regarding their views on the conflict. Critics suggest that this recalls the oppressive atmosphere of the Soviet era, highlighting that the rights group OVD-Info has documented 21 such prosecutions since the war began in February 2022.
Details of the Case
The controversy ignited when Anastasia Akinshina, the mother of a seven-year-old patient, claimed that Buyanova referred to her child’s deceased father—a soldier killed in action—as a “legitimate target” during a clinic visit. Despite the lack of concrete evidence, including any audio or video recordings, the prosecution heavily relied on Akinshina’s written statements and a transcript from interviews conducted by the Federal Security Service (FSB).
The presiding judge did not allow the boy to be questioned in court, further adding to the concerns about the fairness of the trial.
A Community in Turmoil
The medical community’s response illustrates a growing discontent and willingness to speak out against the government’s handling of dissenting views. With numerous professionals rallying behind Buyanova, this case may very well become a significant touchstone for healthcare workers and advocates for freedom of expression within Russia.
As the situation develops, many hope for a swift resolution, and for the voices advocating for Buyanova to be heard at the highest levels of power.