AUGUST 12, 2024 | UPDATED: OCTOBER 22, 2025
RUSSIA

UPDATE—SISTER CONVICTED | “I Do Not Feel Lonely”

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On October 21, 2025, the Vyselkovskiy District Court of the Krasnodar Territory convicted Sister Irina Zinina and gave her a two-year suspended prison sentence. She is not required to go to prison at this time.

Profile

Irina Zinina

Born: 1987 (Norilsk, Krasnoyarsk Territory)

Biography: Worked as a dressmaker

Irina’s mother, Lyudmila, was the first to study the Bible with Jehovah’s Witnesses

Irina was impressed with the happy way of life enjoyed by those who apply Bible principles. Baptized in 2001

Lyudmila is being tried in a separate criminal case

Personal Comments

How have you experienced Jehovah’s support?

I firmly believe that Jehovah is using my spiritual brothers and sisters to help me through this difficult time. They pray for me and my family and often send me pictures, videos, or encouraging scriptures and thoughts. Some even come to my court hearings. I am extremely grateful for everything they do. It is because of their support that I do not feel lonely. I am convinced that with Jehovah’s help and with a brotherhood like this, I can endure any challenge that comes my way.

We are confident that Jehovah will keep strengthening Irina and all of us as we strive to imitate him and “continue loving one another.”—1 John 4:7.

Time Line

February 13, 2022

The home where Irina lives with her mother and father searched
May 23, 2023

Criminal case initiated. Charged with participating in the activities of an extremist organization for talking about her beliefs
July 22, 2023

Placed under travel restrictions
February 8, 2024

Criminal trial began

Jehovah’s Witnesses