Israeli-Russian Citizen Sentenced to Prison in Moscow Over Navalny Donation

Sofia Rosenfeld, a holder of both Israeli and Russian citizenship, was sentenced last week in Moscow to three and a half years in prison after donating a small sum to the foundation of the late opposition leader Alexei Navalny back when the organization was still legal. Her father, Boris, spoke about the moment security forces raided her home, the bitter disappointment with the verdict, and the family's deep concern, stating they are under immense pressure and currently unable to visit her.

The Arrest and Legal Proceedings

In an interview, Boris explained that the family's last remaining hope rests on the upcoming appeal. The donation in question amounted to less than 80 shekels, and Sofia had assumed the matter would conclude with a fine or community service rather than a multi-year prison sentence.

We are very worried. She thought it would end with a fine or community service—we did not expect a prison sentence of several years over a donation amounting to less than 80 shekels, Boris said.

Boris described his daughter's background, noting her deep connection to Israel alongside her life in Moscow. She visited the country annually, represented Israel in international competitions at a young age, and has extensive family residing in Israel.

Retroactive Criminalization

The ordeal began roughly four years ago when a standing donation order set up by Sofia for Navalny's organization retroactively became a criminal offense. According to Boris, the contribution was entirely legal at the time it was made. While Sofia was working in Siberia, the organization was outlawed. Upon returning to Moscow in early September and learning of the legal change, she immediately cancelled the standing order, though two payments of approximately 40 shekels each had already been processed.

For four years, life continued without incident. However, in late November, just two days after returning from a family visit in Israel, Russian security forces raided her apartment and indicted her for financing an extremist organization.

The verdict was handed down last week, coinciding notably with October 7. The family awaits the appeal process while seeking consular assistance from the Israeli Foreign Ministry.

Foreign Ministry Involvement

The Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that it is in ongoing contact with the family and is working through diplomatic channels with Russian authorities to secure consular services and a humanitarian visit.