Russian occupation official exposed in Kyiv Independent documentary charged with war crimes

The SBU has charged Artem Sharlai, a Russian occupation official, with war crimes related to the persecution of religious communities in Melitopol. Sharlai, who led the religious organizations department in Zaporizhzhia, allegedly organized repression against those resisting Russian control. The Kyiv Independent's documentary highlighted his role in the systematic persecution of Christians, including church closures and detentions. Sharlai reportedly provided lists of pro-Ukrainian parishioners to the FSB, leading to raids and torture of clergy and worshippers. The investigation is ongoing, with Sharlai notified of his charges under Ukraine's Criminal Code.