The Yabloko Party views the murder of Paul Klebnikov as an exceptionally grave political event. At the core, we view this as an act of intimidation against foreign correspondents in Russia. The purpose is to frighten every one who intends to scrutinize seriously and without bias what is really happening in our country.

This crime speaks to two things. First, the authorities in Russia do not wish to fulfill their obligation to protect not only their citizens, but also citizens of other countries — especially if their activities do not correspond with the interests of the ruling group. Other conclusions are not excluded, and for that we need a need a serious, independent investigation.

Secondly, criminal elements are directly involved in politics. They freely cross the line even when it involves internationally known public figures — Galina Starovoitova, Sergei Yushenkov, Valentin Tsvetkov, Paul Klebnikov.

Moscow was always regarded as one of the most prestigious places for foreign correspondents. Now it is become one of the very dangerous. The Yabloko Party expresses its solidarity with foreign journalists working in Russia. We believe that the role of the world press in the creation of a free, democratic, contemporary state in Russia is very great. Our country badly needs honest, intelligent and professional journalism.

Paul Klebnikov was a fearless person. He loved Russia and believed in its bright and just future. Only he concluded too early that it had already arrived. Please accept my deep condolences on the demise of your colleague.

Grigory Yavlinsky, Moscow, chairman, Yabloko Party
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The piece on the ITH:
http://www.iht.com/articles/2004/07/17/edlet_ed3__55.php