Alexei Soldatov: Pioneering Father of Russian Internet Faces Critical Health Crisis in Prison

In a tragic turn of events, Alexei Soldatov, an influential figure in the development of the Russian internet and former deputy minister of communications, finds himself in a dire state as he serves a two-year sentence for "abuse of power." His son, investigative journalist Andrei Soldatov, took to social media on Thursday to express grave concerns about his father’s deteriorating health. This situation paints a stark picture of the trials faced by important contributors to Russia’s technological landscape.

The Legacy of Alexei Soldatov

Alexei Soldatov, often hailed as the father of the Russian internet, is celebrated for leading the Relcom computer network that achieved the first Soviet connection to the global internet. His contributions have left an indelible mark on Russia’s digital infrastructure. Serving as deputy minister of communications from 2008 to 2010, Soldatov was instrumental in ushering Russia into the modern internet age.

Charges and Imprisonment

In a controversial ruling, a judge sentenced Alexei Soldatov to two years in a penal colony in July for unlawfully transferring IP address rights from the Russian Research Institute for the Development of Public Networks to a Czech provider. Soldatov’s legal team and family have vehemently denied these charges, alleging that the accusations are unfounded and politically motivated.

Health Deterioration and Dire Conditions

Soldatov, now 72, has been subjected to harsh conditions in prison. According to his son, Andrei Soldatov, Alexei has been transferred between three prisons in just two months, forced to sleep on the floor, and share overcrowded cells. The conditions he faces are dire and have severely impacted his health. Last month, he was moved to a prison hospital after contracting a lung infection, but his condition remains critical. "Last Friday, he lost consciousness and collapsed during a visit with his wife," Andrei wrote, expressing fears that his father’s condition will only worsen upon his imminent return to a regular prison cell.

Controversial Case and Alleged Retaliation

The case against Alexei Soldatov reportedly began in 2019 at the behest of Andrei Lipov, the head of Russia’s internet regulator Roskomnadzor. Lipov has had a longstanding feud with Alexei over the ownership of the .su domain, adding a layer of complexity and possible personal vendetta to the legal proceedings. The independent news outlet Meduza has been at the forefront of reporting these developments, providing crucial insights into the contentious nature of the case.

Broader Implications for Russia’s Modernizers

The fate of Alexei Soldatov is part of a broader narrative concerning the treatment of modernizers in Russia. As illustrated by Soldatov’s ordeal, those who have contributed significantly to the country’s technological advancements are not immune to the sweeping powers wielded by the state. His plight raises serious questions about the political and judicial climate in Russia, particularly in the context of the government’s effort to control and manipulate technological progress.

Conclusion

The critical situation of Alexei Soldatov not only underscores the personal tragedy of a pioneering figure but also highlights the risks facing those who push for technological advancements in politically fraught environments. As his health continues to decline, the global community watches with a wary eye, hoping for a resolution that honors his contributions and mitigates his suffering. For more information about Relcom, you can visit their official website.

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