Court Considered Irina Zinina from Vyselki to Be Extremist. In This Family, Two People Already Convicted for Their Faith

Two years suspended - such a sentence was passed on October 21, 2025 by the Vyselkovskiy District Court to Irina Zinina, 37. She was found guilty of extremism for discussing the Bible with friends. In June, the court made a similar decision in the case of her mother, Lyudmila, a pensioner with serious illnesses.

"Due to the application of this law [Ed. note: on extremism] many people have the wrong attitude towards me," Irina addressed the court on the eve of the announcement of the verdict. "Still, there are a lot of sympathetic people who are outraged by the fact that they unfairly initiate criminal cases against law-abiding, decent people. It is sad that this law is applied to civilians of different ages... Among them are disabled, seriously ill, and some even died under investigation."

Back in February 2022, Irina and Lyudmila Zinina's homes were searched. Police officers searched them for the addresses of other believers, as well as books and records with the name of God. More than a year later, criminal proceedings were initiated against both women.

"Biblical practical advice has helped me throughout my adult life, for example: to remain a kind and decent person, to conscientiously do my job and the duties assigned to me," said Irina, expressing her disagreement with the accusation of extremism. She added: "At a part-time job, this is the role of a caregiver - I have to take care of people of different backgrounds, statuses, religions, and everyone is satisfied... People turn to me for repairs and sewing of clothes, for help in cleaning as a cleaner, for construction repairs. With readiness and diligence I carry out these assignments."

Irina and Lyudmila try not to lose optimism, despite the difficulties. During this time, friends became their support: "They send pictures, videos, and encouraging thoughts, come to court hearings and try to support them," says Irina. "At first, it was hard to accept help, because usually you help yourself, but here..."

In total, 15 Jehovah's Witnesses have already been persecuted for their faith in the village of Vyselki. In three cases, law enforcement officers opened cases against several family members at once.