The European Union strongly condemns the ruling by a Moscow court to sentence the opposition politician, democracy activist and outspoken Kremlin critic Vladimir Kara-Murza to 25 years in prison on politically motivated charges.

Today’s outrageously harsh court decision clearly demonstrates yet again the political misuse of judiciary in order to pressure activists, human rights defenders and any voices opposing Russia’s illegitimate war of aggression against Ukraine. 

This “trial” did not meet the international standards of a fair and public hearing by a competent, impartial, and independent tribunal. The court hearings were inaccessible for observers. 

Russia should also ensure access to appropriate health care for Vladimir Kara-Murza and all others in prison. 

In his final statement at the court, Vladimir Kara-Murza said that his trial resembled the show trials in the 1930s.

The European Union stands in solidarity with all those Russians who are prosecuted, imprisoned or intimidated for fighting for human rights, speaking the truth and criticising the regime. 

We call on Russia to immediately and unconditionally release all those imprisoned for politically motivated charges. We also urge Russia to repeal its oppressive legislation, including the laws censoring truthful information about Russia’s war against Ukraine, and the laws on so-called “foreign agents” and “undesirable organisations” that are only used to suppress civil society and independent voices.