The Federal Security Service of Russia has announced the launch of a new criminal case against former businessman and opposition activist Mikhail Khodorkovsky, who currently resides abroad. He is accused of creating a “terrorist organization” and planning the violent overthrow of power.

According to investigators, the case is linked to the activities of the Anti-War Committee, a movement supported by Khodorkovsky and officially banned in Russia. Russian authorities claim that the organization coordinated actions aimed at undermining state structures and overthrowing the constitutional order.

Khodorkovsky has not yet issued an official comment.

He previously served 10 years in prison on fraud charges – a case widely criticized as politically motivated. After his release in 2013, Khodorkovsky left Russia and became an outspoken critic of the government. Since the beginning of Russia’s war with Ukraine, he has taken a strong anti-war stance and publicly supports the Ukrainian side.

This decision can be seen as another step in pressuring opposition figures and Russian emigres critical of the Kremlin. Khodorkovsky has already faced legal restrictions (including being labeled a “foreign agent”) and previous prosecutions – this new accusation appears to represent an expansion of the government’s repressive toolkit.

Such measures create a climate of intimidation: individuals who criticize the authorities, whether inside or outside the country, may fear prosecution or extradition. This, in turn, further isolates the opposition and hampers its activities.

By using legal rhetoric such as “terrorist activity”, the authorities seek to legitimize harsh actions and justify repression before the domestic public and the international community. Statements of concern from human rights organizations and Western governments are likely to follow, as Russia’s judicial system has repeatedly been accused of politically motivated trials. This development could intensify diplomatic pressure and lead to new sanctions, particularly against officials involved in repressive actions.

#RUSSIA

14.10.2025 08:29