A Moscow appeals court on Tuesday upheld an eight-and-a-half-year prison sentence against German satirist Jacques Tilly, confirming his conviction related to his Carnival floats. The three-judge panel, led by Judge Vladimir Usov, dismissed the artist’s appeal, maintaining the verdict issued in April.

Tilly, known for his satirical sculptures displayed during Carnival parades in his hometown of Düsseldorf, was found guilty in absentia by a Moscow court of offending religious sentiments and disseminating false information about the Russian armed forces. The charges stemmed from his public works, which often targeted Russian President Vladimir Putin, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and Russian Orthodox Patriarch Kirill.

The decision reflects Russian authorities’ continued scrutiny and legal action against individuals critical of the government and its policies, particularly in relation to the Ukraine conflict. Public defender Natalya Dudkina indicated that the ruling concludes the case unless Tilly opts to appeal to a higher court.

Responding from Düsseldorf, Tilly dismissed the ruling as a "farce" and expressed no intention to extend the legal battle. He reaffirmed his commitment to continuing his satirical work during future Carnival events, stating the verdict would not influence his artistic expression.