The lawyer for the arrested ex-leader of Kremlin-backed separatists in Ukraine, Igor Girkin (aka Strelkov), says the materials of his client’s case have been classified as "top secret." Girkin, who was arrested in Moscow on extremism charges last month, was a key commander of the separatists in Ukraine's eastern Donbas region in 2014. He also helped Russia occupy Ukraine's Crimea that year. His arrest appears to indicate he has fallen out of favor with the Kremlin despite previously being seen as untouchable given his background. To read the original story by RFE/RL's Echo of the Caucasus, click here.
Lawyer Says Case Materials Against Former Russian-Backed Commander Girkin Classified As 'Top Secret'
Igor Girkin sits behind a glass wall of an enclosure for defendants before a court hearing in Moscow on July 21.