She said that Nikulin had already served 48 months in prison out of 88 months, to which he was sentenced by the court.

The lawyer also announced the possibility of a Russian citizen to be released after serving 85% of the term. 

“He still has 26.8 months left to serve, that is, in just over two years he will return home,” she said.

At the same time, she believes that the arguments of the defense should have ensured that the court delivered a milder sentence to Nikulin. 

“Nevertheless, I am pleased that the judge rejected the excessive request of the authorities ...” - said the lawyer, adding that she will appeal the verdict.

Earlier, an American court decided to sentence Nikulin to seven years and four months in prison on cybercrime charges.

The prosecution demanded that the Russian be sentenced to 12 years and one month in prison.