UK Summons Russian Ambassador Over Kara-Murza’s Shocking 25-Year Jail Sentence
The UK has slammed Moscow after British-Russian dual-national Vladimir Kara-Murza was slammed with a brutal 25-year prison sentence today on politically-motivated charges.
Who Is Vladimir Kara-Murza?
Kara-Murza is a high-profile opposition politician, journalist, and human rights activist widely respected for his fearless work. He’s even bagged the prestigious Vaclav Havel Human Rights Prize. Twice poisoned in past attacks, he was arrested by Russian authorities back in April 2022.
Today’s conviction includes trumped-up charges such as spreading “knowingly false information” about Russia’s army, links with an “undesirable” organisation, and treason.
UK Pushes Back Hard
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office summoned Russian Ambassador Andrey Kelin to express outrage. The UK insists Kara-Murza’s jailing breaches Russia’s international human rights obligations, including the right to a fair trial.
Foreign Secretary James Cleverly said:
“Vladimir Kara-Murza bravely denounced Russia’s invasion of Ukraine for what it was – a blatant violation of international law and the UN Charter.”
“Russia’s disregard for fundamental human rights, especially freedom of expression, is utterly shocking. We urge Russia to respect its international commitments, including providing Vladimir with proper healthcare.”
“I pay tribute to Mr Kara-Murza and his family, especially his wife Evgenia, whose tireless campaigning on his behalf has drawn global attention. The UK will continue demanding his immediate release.”
Sanctions and Future Action
The UK has already slapped sanctions on the judge who presided over the trial, citing past involvement in human rights abuses. Further measures targeting those responsible for Kara-Murza’s detention and mistreatment are being considered.
