Vadim Prokhorov, lawyer of Russian opposition politician Kara-Murza sentenced to 25 years, left Russia before client’s sentencing due to threats

Lawyer Vadim Prokhorov, who was defending Russian opposition politician Vladimir Kara-Murza during his court case, left Russia several days before Kara-Murza’s sentencing due to threats, Meduza reports, citing the lawyer’s interview with Voice of America in Washington. Kara-Murza was sentenced to 25 years behind bars on Monday.

“Currently, I am not in Russia. Both the prosecutor and the judge stated that it was necessary to not only disbar me but also consider initiating a criminal case [against me]. Also, I received a warning through one of the politicians about a possible interest [towards me] from one of the deputies of the Prosecutor General, who is actually the one overseeing our case,” the lawyer said.

“Some of my colleagues are already in custody,” he added.

On 17 April, the Moscow City Court sentenced Russian politician and journalist Vladimir Kara-Murza to 25 years in prison over charges of “high treason”, “fake news” about the Russian army, and working with an “undesirable organisation”, Open Russia. 

In his closing speech, Kara-Murza stressed that he was placed in custody for his “political views”.

“For speaking out against the war in Ukraine. For a years-long fight against Putin’s dictatorship. For contributing to personal international sanctions against violators of human rights through the Magnitsky Act. Not only do I not repent any of these deeds, but I am also proud of them,” he said.

The trial was held behind closed doors.