Ruslan Maratovich Asainov, a U.S. citizen and former resident of Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, has been sentenced to life imprisonment plus seventy years for his involvement with ISIS. Asainov was found guilty of providing material support to the foreign terrorist organization, which resulted in death. He was also convicted of conspiracy to provide material support, obstruction of justice, and receiving military-type training from ISIS. This sentence was handed down by United States District Judge Nicholas G. Garaufis.
Between December 2013 and March 2019, Asainov provided and conspired to provide material support and resources to ISIS. This support included personnel, training, and expert advice. Asainov was fully aware that ISIS was a designated foreign terrorist organization engaged in terrorist activities. He even received military-type training from ISIS, which is a violation of federal law.
Asainov’s involvement with ISIS began when he abandoned his wife and daughter in Brooklyn and traveled to Istanbul, Turkey on December 24, 2013. From there, he joined ISIS as a fighter in northern Syria, specifically in the area of Aleppo. Asainov fought in numerous battles over the course of five years, including engagements at Kobani, Tabqa, Raqqa, Dayr Az Zawr, and ISIS’s last stand in Syria at Baghouz in March 2019. During his time with ISIS, he received training in the use of automatic rifles, machine guns, and rocket-propelled grenades. Asainov even trained as a sniper and became a sniper trainer for the organization.
Asainov’s commitment to ISIS went beyond simply fighting on their behalf. He attempted to recruit another individual from the United States to join ISIS and even sought funds to purchase a scope for his rifle. He also made it clear to his estranged wife that he was fighting for ISIS, describing them as “the most atrocious terrorist organization in the world.” Asainov even sent her a photograph of three dead fighters, one of whom was wearing an ISIS patch.
Asainov’s involvement with ISIS came to an end when he was captured in Syria after ISIS’s last stand at Baghouz. Before his capture, he disposed of his rifle and destroyed his cell phone. After his capture, Asainov admitted to FBI agents that he had fought in numerous battles on behalf of ISIS and had served in different fighting brigades.
During his trial, Asainov reiterated his allegiance to ISIS, stating that they would rise again. His dedication to the terrorist organization was further evidenced by the discovery of an improvised ISIS flag in his prison cell in September 2020.
United States Attorney Breon Peace emphasized that today’s sentence holds Asainov accountable for his actions and protects the world community from his violent and dangerous influence. He stated, “Anyone who takes up arms in service of ISIS and causes death and destruction will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law by this Office.”
Assistant Attorney General for National Security Matthew G. Olsen echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the Department of Justice’s commitment to bringing to justice those who aid murderous terrorist organizations.
HSI New York Special Agent-in-Charge Ivan J. Arvelo stated that the world is safer with Asainov behind bars and commended the collective effort of law enforcement in ensuring that his atrocities end here.
NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban emphasized that Asainov’s sentence serves as a warning to those who promote or carry out the violent objectives of terrorist groups. He affirmed that the NYPD and law enforcement partners will not stop working to identify and bring to justice those who consider the nation their sworn enemy.
In conclusion, Ruslan Maratovich Asainov’s involvement with ISIS and his support for their violent agenda have led to a life sentence plus seventy years of imprisonment. His dedication to the terrorist organization, as evidenced by his actions and statements, has resulted in a significant loss of life and destruction. This sentence serves as a reminder that those who commit acts of terror will face severe consequences and that law enforcement will continue to work tirelessly to protect the community from such threats.
