IRI Condemns Unjust Sentencing of Vladimir Kara-Murza and Calls for Release of All Political Prisoners in Russia

The International Republican Institute (IRI) released the following statement after the Putin regime sentenced prominent pro-democracy Russian statesman Vladimir Kara-Murza on trumped-up charges:

“Vladimir Putin’s regime continues its assault on political opponents, journalists, and dissidents. Two weeks ago, the Kremlin unjustly imprisoned American journalist Evan Gershkovich, and now it has sentenced Vladimir Kara-Murza on trumped-up charges.

“IRI strongly condemns Russia’s unjust sentencing of Mr. Kara-Murza, a fierce advocate for democracy in Russia who was previously poisoned and targeted for assassination on two occasions by the Putin regime. Mr. Kara-Murza has been one of the most eloquent champions of democracy and human rights throughout Russia. The Kremlin’s trumped-up charges against him and its political opponents demonstrate the fear the regime has of its own people to have a voice in their own future.

“IRI calls for Mr. Kara-Murza’s immediate release and the release of all other political prisoners in Russia.”