Russland: 25 Jahre Haft wegen Kriegskritik

Dear Prosecutor General,

I am writing to urge you to stop the prosecution of prominent political activist and journalist, Vladimir Kara-Murza who is facing charges of "high treason" (Article 275 of the Criminal Code), "disseminating knowingly false information about Russian Armed Forces" (Article 207.3(2)) and "participating in activities of an undesirable organization" (Article 284.1(1)). On 17 April, he was convicted and sentenced to 25 years in prison.

Vladimir Kara-Murza was arrested near his home in Moscow on 11 April 2022. He is being prosecuted solely for his peaceful political activism and for his criticism of the Russian authorities for the Russian aggression against Ukraine. No one should face restrictions, let alone long imprisonment, for exercising their human right to freedom of expression, which is guaranteed by both international law and the Russian Constitution.

Vladimir Kara-Murza reportedly suffers from polyneuropathy of the lower extremities, a diagnosis that prevents serving a sentence under Russian law. His continued detention risks further deterioration of his health.

In light of the above, I urge you to use your authority to:

Quash Vladimir Kara-Murza’s conviction and release him immediately and unconditionally;

Pending that, ensure that Vladimir Kara-Murza is held in conditions that meet international standards and provided the adequate medical treatment he may require equivalent to the standard of health care that is available to the public.

Yours sincerely,