EP plenary: Repression in Russia, in particular the cases of Vladimir Kara-Murza and Aleksei Navalny
European External Action Service (EEAS)
19.04.2023
Strasbourg
EEAS Press Team
Speech delivered by Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Stella Kyriakides, on behalf of High-Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell
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Madam President, Members,
The European Union strongly condemns the sentencing of the opposition politician and democracy activist Vladimir Kara-Murza to 25 years in prison for simply speaking out against Russia's illegal war of aggression against Ukraine.
This outrageous court decision clearly demonstrates yet again the political misuse of the judiciary in Russia, and shows that there is no rule of law in the courtrooms of the country. The so-called "trial" did not meet the international standards of a fair and public hearing by a competent, impartial, and independent tribunal.
It is clear that the internal repression in Russia is linked to its escalating external aggression. The Kremlin is further accelerating the crackdown on the civic space, intensifying pressure on activists, human rights defenders and any voices opposing Russia's illegal war against Ukraine.
We reaffirm our solidarity with Vladimir Kara-Murza, Alexei Navalny, Ilya Yashin, and all those many Russians who are prosecuted, imprisoned or intimidated for continuing to fight for human rights and speaking the truth about the regime's illegal actions.
Russia must immediately and unconditionally release Vladimir Kara-Murza and all those imprisoned for politically motivated charges. Russia should also ensure access to appropriate health care for Mr. Kara-Murza and all others in prison. This includes Mr. Navalny, whose health has been reported deteriorating after he had been in the so-called "punishment cell". Russian authorities are responsible for the safety and for the health of these persons.
We have strongly condemned the sentencing of the opposition politician and democracy activist, Vladimir Kara-Murza, and we stand ready to take further action. Decisions regarding sanctions are for the [European] Council to decide upon.
Russia must respect its international obligations on human rights. Russia must repeal its oppressive legislation: the laws censoring truthful information about Russia's war against Ukraine, and the laws on so-called "foreign agents" and "undesirable organisations".
I join Vladmir Kara-Murza who in his recent statement at the court voiced hope that the day will come when the darkness over Russia will dissipate.
Link to video (starting at 32:24): https://audiovisual.ec.europa.eu/en/video/I-239845
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