Russia – France applauds the release of several political prisoners (2 August 2024)

France shares the joy of the families and allied governments following the release of a number of political prisoners jailed in Russia, including Vladimir Kara-Murza, Ilya Yashin, Oleg Orlov, Alexandra Skochilenko, Evan Gershkovich, Paul Whelan, Alsu Kurmasheva, Rico Krieger, Patrick Schöbel and Kevin Lik. We also express our relief, especially in light of the conditions to which they were subjected in prison and the resulting threat to their health.

We pay tribute to the courage of the men and women in Russia and elsewhere who defend the freedom of speech and opinion despite the risks. France once again expresses its outrage over the death of Alexei Navalny in prison on February 16, for which the Russian authorities must be held to account.

Our thoughts go out to the people who remain arbitrarily detained in Russia, and specifically our compatriot Laurent Vinatier. France calls for their immediate release.