MOSCOW — A military court in Moscow has handed down a 19-year prison sentence to Pavel Popov, who previously served as Russia’s deputy defense minister, following his conviction on corruption charges, Russian state media reported Friday.
Popov’s arrest in 2024 stemmed from illegal business dealings connected to a massive military-themed attraction in Moscow that some have nicknamed Russia’s “military Disneyland.”
The facility, known as Patriot Park, was a signature initiative of former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu aimed at fostering patriotic feelings among Russia’s youth through displays of Soviet and Russian military equipment. The complex includes shooting ranges, an airfield, multiple museums, a conference facility, and a large olive-colored Cathedral of the Russian Armed Forces decorated with mosaics depicting Soviet and Russian military personnel.
According to the Kremlin, President Vladimir Putin personally contributed funds for the church’s primary religious icon.
Court investigators determined that Popov, who oversaw Patriot Park’s construction and operations, illegally redirected more than 25 million rubles ($324,000) from the park’s budget to fund renovations on his private residences in the Moscow area, state news outlet Ria Novosti reported.
Popov maintained his innocence throughout the proceedings, and his legal representative announced plans to challenge the ruling, state news agency TASS reported. The court also imposed an 85 million ruble ($1.1 million) fine.
Two additional defendants faced charges alongside Popov: the park’s director received a six-year sentence, while Maj. Gen Vladimir Shesterov, who worked in the Defense Ministry’s innovation division, was sentenced to five years behind bars.
This case represents part of a broader criminal investigation targeting more than a dozen officials connected to former Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, all facing allegations of misconduct within Russia’s military hierarchy.
Popov held the deputy defense minister position from 2013 through June 2024, when President Putin removed him from office through an official decree.
