Olexandr Kolchenko (born 10 August 1984) is a Ukrainian political activist and journalist. He is known for his involvement with left‑wing movements in Ukraine, including the Left Front (Лівий Фронт), and for his participation in civil society initiatives advocating for social justice and anti‑corruption reforms.
In March 2014, during the annexation of Crimea by the Russian Federation, Kolchenko was arrested by Russian authorities on charges of participating in an alleged “terrorist group” and “extremist activity.” He was subsequently sentenced to 12 years in prison. International human‑rights organizations, as well as the Ukrainian government, denounced the trial as politically motivated and lacking due process. After serving approximately three years, Kolchenko was released in December 2017 as part of a prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine.
Following his release, Kolchenko resumed his activism and journalistic work, contributing to Ukrainian media outlets and continuing to engage in political commentary. He remains a vocal critic of Russian policies in the region and an advocate for Ukrainian sovereignty.
Birthdate: 10 August 1984
Nationality: Ukrainian
Occupation: Political activist, journalist
Key events:
- Membership in the Left Front (Ukraine)
- Arrest and imprisonment by Russian authorities (2014‑2017)
- Release in a 2017 prisoner exchange
Kolchenko’s activities have been covered by major international news agencies and documented by human‑rights groups, establishing him as a recognized figure within contemporary Ukrainian political activism.
