The Moscow City Court rejected an appeal against the detention of political analyst Alexander Kynev on October 22. Kynev, who faces drug-related charges, sought a change in his pretrial detention order through his defense team, which cited a serious leg injury and his need for medical care. He will remain in custody until November 24.
Mediazona reported the ruling and details of the hearing. Its courtroom reporting was also cited by The Moscow Times.
Kynev participated in the hearing by video link from a pretrial detention center. His leg was in a cast. He was diagnosed with fractures after his arrest and has experienced serious difficulty moving around.
His lawyer, Vera Goncharova, warned the court that without necessary treatment and mobility aids, his condition could deteriorate to the point of permanent disability.
The court examined medical records during the hearing, including a hospital discharge summary. According to that document, Kynev received treatment from September 25 to October 8 and was discharged in satisfactory condition.
His defense argues that the medical records do not resolve concerns about his health while he remains in detention. The lawyers requested a change in his custodial status, but the court upheld the earlier ruling.
Kynev was detained in September. He is charged under paragraph (g) of Part 4 of Article 228.1 of Russia's Criminal Code, which covers the unlawful production, sale or distribution of drugs on a large scale. Reports about the case indicate that the accusation concerns an alleged attempted sale. Kynev denies the charges.
The circumstances surrounding his injuries remain unclear. There have been allegations that force was used during his detention, but the available evidence does not establish exactly how he sustained the injuries or who may be responsible.
Alexander Kynev is known for his research on Russia's electoral system, regional politics and political parties. In February 2026, Russia's Justice Ministry added him to its register of so-called foreign agents.
The Moscow City Court's decision leaves his pretrial detention unchanged. Questions about the adequacy of his medical care and the circumstances of his injuries remain unresolved.