Meta Spokesperson Andy Stone Sentenced to Six Years by Russian Court

Andy Stone, Meta's communications director, was sentenced in absentia for justifying terrorism amid ongoing tensions between Russia and Meta.

Andy Stone was convicted for posts made on social media that supported hostility towards Russian military actions in Ukraine.
Russia has labeled Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, as an extremist organization.
The sentence is symbolic as the U.S. and Russia do not have an extradition treaty, making enforcement unlikely unless Stone travels to Russia or its allies.
Meta has been under scrutiny for its policies during the Russian invasion of Ukraine, allowing certain calls for violence against Russian soldiers.
Stone's conviction is part of broader efforts by Russia to control narrative and retaliate against perceived enemies, which includes banning Meta's CEO from entering Russia.