With the continued detention of the three members of the punk band Pussy Riot and the announcement of embezzlement charges against prominent anti-Putin blogger Alexei Navalny, the Russian justice system is coming under increasing scrutiny from the international community.

 

"The court case against the members of Pussy Riot is turning into a farce. The close ties between the ultra-conservative and nationalistic leadership of the Russian Orthodox Church and the Kremlin raise very serious concerns.

 

"There is still an opportunity here to deliver on Prime Minister Medvedev's claims for the independence of the judiciary. It is high time Russia gave a positive sign on human rights. The reactions of the Russian administration have so far been completely inadequate, whether or not one sympathises with the protests against President Putin. This has again been confirmed by the recent embezzlement charges against Alexei Navalny, a leader of the protest movement."

 

"Unfortunately the decreasing respect for democracy and the rule of law inside the country is equalled by the irresponsible behaviour of the Russian leadership in foreign affairs. Russia's refusal to contribute to a peaceful solution of the Syrian conflict is an example of this.

 

"Putin cares more about maintaining power and influence than about resolving conflicts. Under these circumstances it is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain a strategic partnership with Russia. Under the current leadership, Russia is moving away further from common values and goals."

 

 

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Associated media

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