Khodorkovsky & Lebedev Communications Center

The Yukos Affair and the cases of Mikhail Khodorkovsky and Platon Lebedev have generated an outpouring of reactions from around the world.

Business leaders and investors question the merits of the attack on one of Russia's most successful and transparent companies. Political leaders and international organizations criticize the political nature of the trial and express uncertainty about the state of Russia's democracy and rule of law. Human rights advocates decry the abject trampling of Khodorkovsky's and Lebedev's legal rights and the torture and mistreatment of their former Yukos colleagues.

All express support for Khodorkovsky and Lebedev for their strength and heroism as they continue to proclaim their innocence in the face of overwhelming abuses of state authority in the legal machinations against them.

International Political Context

The US Government, EU and Member State governments and legislators, Council of Europe and many world leaders have voiced concern about the fates of Khodorkovsky, Lebedev, and the many others connected to the Yukos Affair. They routinely call on the Russian government to stop violating basic human rights and to correct what have clearly been unjust proceedings conducted for political goals. Read more about International Support for Mikhail Khodorkovsky & Platon Lebedev.

Comments from Around the World

Read a collection of quotes from global supporters of Mikhail Khodorkovsky and Platon Lebedev, from world leaders to human rights activists. See quotes from around the world on the Yukos Affair and the Khodorkovsky/Lebedev trial verdict.

Human Rights Supporters

Both Russian and international human rights groups have repeatedly and unequivocally called for the release of Khodorkovsky and Lebedev. Read more about human rights groups views on the Yukos Affair.

Opinions in Russia

Despite the unfavorable views many Russians hold toward their business elite, Russians from all parts of society have increasingly expressed support for Khodorkovsky and Lebedev, noting their positive contributions to the country and their perseverance in the face of blatant political persecution. Read more about views from inside Russia

Organizations & Allies

A number of other organizations and individuals have joined in expressing support for Khodorkovsky and Lebedev, linking the case of the two men to larger trends within Russia.