Milan, March 26 (LaPresse) – Russia has sentenced 23 captured Ukrainians on terrorism charges related to the fighting in Ukraine. Among the defendants are 14 soldiers or former fighters from the elite Azov Brigade, which Russia has designated as a terrorist group, as well as nine women and one man who worked as cooks or support staff. Twelve defendants were not present in court: eleven had returned to Ukraine in two prisoner exchanges and were sentenced in absentia. Another died in prison last year. All were accused of organizing a violent coup and carrying out activities for a terrorist organization. Some faced an additional charge of training for terrorist activities. Their sentences range from 13 to 23 years in prison.