Aliyev Defends Arrest of Journalists in Azerbaijan
European Lawmakers Call for Immediate Release of Political Prisoners in Russia
European lawmakers have taken a firm stance against Russia’s treatment of political prisoners by approving a resolution that demands the “immediate and unconditional release” of individuals unjustly detained, including journalists Alsu Kurmasheva and Evan Gershkovich.
The resolution, which was passed by a majority vote in the European Parliament, condemns Russia’s undemocratic presidential election and its illegitimate hold on territories within Ukraine that Moscow has unlawfully annexed. The resolution specifically calls for the release and compensation of all political prisoners, the restoration of freedom of expression and association in Russia, and increased international monitoring of human rights abuses.
Among the individuals highlighted in the resolution as political prisoners in need of release are Vladimir Kara-Murza, Oleg Orlov, Ksenia Fadeyeva, Ivan Safronov, and Ilya Yashin. Alsu Kurmasheva, a journalist based in Prague with dual US and Russian citizenship, has been detained since October 18 for allegedly violating Russia’s “foreign agent” law. The charges against her are seen as retaliation for her journalism work, and she faces up to 10 years in prison.
Similarly, Evan Gershkovich, a reporter for The Wall Street Journal, has been held on spying charges that he and his employer vehemently deny. Despite calls for his release, Gershkovich remains in detention since March 2023. The US government has designated him as wrongfully detained, highlighting the need for his immediate release.
The resolution’s approval signals a strong message to Russia regarding the treatment of political prisoners and the importance of upholding human rights. Critics argue that Russia’s use of laws like the foreign agent legislation aims to suppress dissent and limit freedom of expression. International pressure is mounting on Russia to release those unjustly detained and respect basic rights.
President Vladimir Putin’s controversial re-election in March was marred by accusations of electoral manipulation, casting a shadow over the legitimacy of his leadership. The European Parliament’s resolution underscores the urgent need for Russia to address its human rights violations and release political prisoners like Alsu Kurmasheva and Evan Gershkovich.
