JUNE 28, 2024
RUSSIA

Three Sisters Convicted in Republic of Kalmykia, Russia

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On June 24, 2024, the Elista City Court of the Republic of Kalmykia convicted Sisters Tsagan Khalgaeva, Yekaterina Menkova, and Kishta Tutinova. Tsagan and Yekaterina were each given a two-year suspended prison sentence. Kishta was given a three-year suspended prison sentence. They are not required to go to prison at this time.

Profiles

Tsagan Khalgaeva

Born: 1978 (Lagan, Republic of Kalmykia)

Biography: Worked as a seamstress

Searched various religions for answers to her questions. Began studying with Jehovah’s Witnesses and found satisfying answers in the Bible

Baptized in 2004

Personal Comments

What are you especially grateful for during this difficult time?

I cherish the prayers my brothers and sisters offer in my behalf. Sometimes, when I am discouraged, I feel as though all I can do is sigh in prayer to Jehovah. Finding the right words can be difficult. But I know that others are also praying for me, and I can see how Jehovah is answering these prayers. This motivates me to pray more specifically for others as well. The support that we can give one another is so comforting, as it reminds me that we are all in this together.

Yekaterina Menkova

Born: 1982 (Tavn-Gashun, Republic of Kalmykia)

Biography: Worked as a laboratory assistant

Married in 2009. Has a son

Was impressed to see how Jehovah’s Witnesses live in harmony with the Bible and how applying Bible principles improved her life. Baptized in 2017

Personal Comments

What verses in the Bible have built up your confidence in Jehovah?

I find the words at Psalm 8:3, 4 very empowering: “When I see your heavens, the works of your fingers, the moon and the stars that you have prepared, what is mortal man that you keep him in mind, and a son of man that you take care of him?” Figuratively speaking, Jehovah was able to create the immense universe and everything in it with just his fingers. Thinking about that reassures me that with Jehovah’s powerful support, I do not need to fear anything.

Kishta Tutinova

Born: 1961 (Novolesnoy, Astrakhan Region)

Biography: Worked as a seamstress. Raised two sons as a single mother

Came from a family of Buddhists. A client who was one of Jehovah’s Witnesses introduced her to the Bible. Kishta was happy to learn how to worship God free from traditions and superstitions. Baptized in 2003

Personal Comments

What has helped you to remain positive?

During my house arrest, I was required to remain indoors for over four months. This was especially challenging, since at the time I shared a one-room apartment with my son and his family. There were seven of us there. Having such limited movement began to negatively affect my well-being. But meditating on the verse at Proverbs 24:10 helped me. It says: “If you become discouraged in the day of distress, your strength will be meager.” I realized that I had to choose between focusing on what was negative and looking for what was positive. I recalled the example of Joseph. When he was in prison, he did not allow his circumstances to make him bitter. So I decided to think about the positive things in my life, and I was able to maintain my joy.

We appreciate these modern-day examples of faith. And we are grateful to know that Jehovah takes notice of all our trials and will reward our faithfulness.—Psalm 37:18.

Time Line

February 16, 2023

Criminal case initiated against Kishta
February 28, 2023

Homes searched. Kishta sent to a temporary detention facility
March 1, 2023

Tsagan dismissed from her job due to the notoriety of her criminal case. Kishta released from temporary detention and placed under house arrest
July 21, 2023

Kishta released from house arrest
December 19, 2023

Criminal case initiated against Yekaterina and Tsagan. Both placed under travel restrictions
February 9, 2024

Kishta placed under travel restrictions
April 1, 2024

Criminal trial began
June 24, 2024

Convicted and given suspended prison sentences

Jehovah’s Witnesses

Three Sisters Convicted in Republic of Kalmykia, Russia

Profiles

Time Line

See Also

Imprisoned for Their Faith—Russia