What is treason?

After the start of the full-scale aggression of the Russian Federation, the issue of high treason in Ukraine has become particularly acute. Citizens are increasingly looking for answers to the questions of what actions are considered high treason, what liability is provided and how to protect their rights in the event of accusation.

What is high treason?

According to Article 111 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine, high treason is the deliberate actions of a citizen of Ukraine directed against the interests of the state, which harm its sovereignty, territorial integrity, inviolability, defense capability or state security.

It can be expressed in the following formats:

• Defection to the enemy;
• Espionage;
• Providing assistance to a foreign state in subversive activities against Ukraine.

The key element is the intention of the person - that is, the awareness: his behavior harms the interests of the state. Without proving intent, such behavior cannot be considered treason. For example, passing information to a foreigner does not constitute a crime in itself unless it is proven that it was intended to harm Ukraine.

Treason is a crime against the foundations of national security. This crime combines political, military, and information components, and therefore its interpretation must take into account modern forms of hybrid threats.

Main forms of treason

Treason, according to the law, is classified into three key forms. These forms differ in their nature and the degree of public danger they pose to national security:

1. Defection to the enemy - voluntary cooperation with representatives of a state that is carrying out aggression against Ukraine, including participation in hostilities or assistance to occupation administrations.
2. Espionage - collection or transfer of information that constitutes a state secret for the benefit of a foreign party or its agents.
3. Assistance to a foreign state, foreign organizations or their representatives in carrying out subversive activities against Ukraine - provision of any assistance (informational, financial, organizational), which may include financing, dissemination of propaganda, sabotage, cyberattacks, etc.

It is important to distinguish treason from related crimes - for example, collaboration activities or encroachment on territorial integrity. High treason always has the intention to cause harm to the sovereignty or defense capability of the state.

Who can be the subject of the crime?

High treason is a criminal offense that can only be committed by a citizen of Ukraine who has reached the age of criminal responsibility from the moment of reaching the age of 16. After all, a citizen is obliged to remain loyal to Ukraine and refrain from actions that may pose a danger. Foreigners or stateless persons are held liable for similar actions under Article 114 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine - espionage.

In practice, the subjects of the crime can be:

• military personnel
• civilian citizens - officials, employees of strategic enterprises, journalists, IT specialists.

The presence of a special status or access to secret information only increases the degree of public danger, but is not a prerequisite for qualifying an act as high treason.

How much is the penalty for high treason?

The sanction of Article 111 of the Criminal Code of Ukraine provides for a penalty of imprisonment for a term of fifteen years to life imprisonment with possible confiscation of property. This level of responsibility is explained by the fact that high treason encroaches on the highest values ​​of the state - its independence and security.

Judicial practice shows that even in the absence of direct consequences for the state, the very fact of deliberate cooperation with the enemy is recognized as a completed crime. In cases where a person voluntarily informed the authorities about attempts to involve him in subversive activities, the law (Part 2 of Article 111 of the Criminal Code) allows for exemption from criminal liability.

How can we help in cases of high treason?

Our team of lawyers provides a full range of legal assistance in cases related to accusations of high treason. We work throughout Ukraine and guarantee professional protection of your rights.

• Lawyer consultation

Lawyers will help you understand the essence of the accusation, explain the legal consequences and possible options for action. You will receive a clear vision of your legal situation and an algorithm for further protection.

• Legal analysis of the case materials

Lawyers will conduct a detailed study of the evidence, protocols of investigative actions, expert opinions. We will check the legality of the collected evidence, identify violations and prepare a strategy for refuting the accusations.

• Preparation of a legal position

Lawyers will form a reasoned line of defense, taking into account the specifics of your case, judicial practice and the provisions of the Criminal Code of Ukraine. Professionals provide proper procedural representation at each stage.

• Court representation

Our lawyers participate in all court hearings, submit the necessary motions, and challenge illegal actions of the investigation and prosecutor's office. We defend your innocence and ensure compliance with the principle of the presumption of innocence.

• Appealing decisions

In the event of an unlawful verdict, we prepare appeals and cassation complaints, ensuring a comprehensive approach to defense. Each document undergoes a thorough legal review, which minimizes the risks of judicial errors.

• Confidentiality and reputation protection

We understand how sensitive such cases are. "Prіkhodko and Partners" guarantees complete confidentiality, professional support, and preservation of your reputation during the criminal process.

Lawyers from the Law Firm "Prіkhodko and Partners" will help you get effective protection, restore justice, and regain confidence in the future.

Get a quote right now — fill out the feedback form below or call us.