Court sentences journalist Ivan Safronov to 22 years in treason case

In addition, he will have to pay a fine of half a million rubles, and after his release - another two years of restriction of freedom with a ban on leaving the region of residence, RIA Novosti reports .

The case was considered for two years behind closed doors. All this time the journalist remained in the pre-trial detention center. According to investigators, the journalist collaborated with the Czech special services, to whom he passed secret data. The final recipient of this information was the United States.

Ivan Safronov himself does not admit his guilt, believing that the criminal prosecution is connected with his journalistic activities.

The state prosecution asked to sentence the journalist to 24 years in a strict regime colony.

The defense may appeal the verdict.