Mikhail Khodorkovsky's trial opened today in Moscow, though it's not entirely clear what the purpose of the trial is. No, actually, the purpose is quite clear. Khodorkovsky was formerly the head of the Russian oil company Yukos. And,
That puts it all together, doesn't it?Khodorkovsky, at one point estimated by Forbes magazine to hold a $15 billion fortune, built Yukos into Russia's largest oil company and defied the Kremlin by publicly criticizing its policies and lending financial support to opposition groups critical of then-President Vladimir Putin.
Khodorkovsky was originally arrested in 2003 on charges of tax evasion (shocking, isn't it?), tried and sentenced, in 2005, to a nine year prison term, to be served in Siberia (a long Russian tradition). He's been brought back to Moscow to face additional charges, presumably to ensure that he stays in Siberia permanently, where he can work in the prison garment factory.
If you's like to show your support for Mr. Khodorkovsky, you can visit his webpage, though you'll need to speak Russian to do so (sorry, there is an English version).
More on Mr. Khodorkovsky from Frontline
