Life Sentence Upheld for Funicular Killer of Teen: Appeal Rejected by Court.

Kosov's Conviction for Teen's Murder Stands

According to Novyny.live: On March 25, 2025, the Kyiv Court of Appeals upheld the life sentence of Artem Kosov, convicted for the murder of 16-year-old Maksym Materukhin at a funicular station on April 7, 2024. The court confirmed Kosov's guilt for the killing, which had originally resulted in a life imprisonment verdict.

During the proceedings, it was revealed that the teenager suffered a fatal slash wound to the neck, causing near-instant death. Artem Kosov had confessed to the crime in September 2024. However, during the trial, he attempted to challenge the verdict by arguing that the death resulted from negligence—a claim that could have reduced his sentence to 3–5 years in prison. Kosov filed an appeal in October 2025, but the court ultimately dismissed it, leaving the original punishment unchanged.

“On the recording, you can hear me using profanity, and I apologize for that. But there are no threats.” - Artem Kosov

He also added: “This is a very tragic situation; there is a person—I am not a stone, I have compassion. The publicity influenced the sentencing, but the punishment should be proportionate.” These remarks reflect his acknowledgment of the crime's severity while attempting to mitigate his own responsibility.

The murder of Maksym Materukhin became a high-profile incident, sparking widespread public outcry. The sentence handed to Kosov underscores the grave consequences of his actions and highlights the importance of accountability for such crimes in society.

A Test for Ukraine's Judicial System

This case has served as a significant test for Ukraine's judicial system, particularly in combating crime and protecting youth rights. The intense public reaction emphasizes the need for a robust response to violence, especially when teenagers are the victims. The court's decision may shape public opinion on violent offenses and establish a precedent for future cases involving crimes against minors.