Mikhail Khodorkovsky’s friend, former business partner and co-defendant Platon Lebedev, turns 57 today. He is scheduled to be released in May 2014. A number of prominent Russians have wished him a Happy Birthday:

Stas Namin, musician:

“Dear Platon, I am wishing you a Happy Birthday. I have a feeling that we are regularly communicating – because I think about you all the time and have a lot of your photos everywhere. I often speak with your family – they love you tremendously and they travel to see you as frequently as possible. Thank God, you are getting out soon and will soon be able to be with your children, your wife, and all your loved ones.”

Grigory Chkhartishvily (aka Boris Akunin), author:

“Happy Birthday, Platon Leonidovich. We were born in the same year, but I am older than you by 6 months. It means that when you will be the same age as I am now, you will already be fee. Everyone, even your enemies, knows that you honourably withstood the ordeal that would have broken many. Millions of people respect you and are waiting for your release; you are not even acquainted with most of them. Stay strong. It will happen soon now.”

Lyudmila Alexeyeva, human rights defender:

“Dear Platon Leonidovich, you are getting released soon, but I understand that the time before you can walk free will drag on very slowly. We congratulate you on your birthday, we all have a great respect for you, we admire you, love you, and are waiting for both you and Mikhail Borisovich. You are our dearest friends and most respected people.”

Alexey Pichugin, former Yukos security chief sentenced to life imprisonment in 2005:

“Dear Platon Leonidovich, I hope this is the last birthday that you have to spend in captivity and away from your family. I am wishing you and those who love you and are waiting for you, health and strength.”

Eldar Ryazanov, film director:

“I heartily congratulate you on your birthday! I am wishing you one thing – to be free in 5 months! During these years of imprisonment you were an example of dignity, courage, and strength! Only a few short (after almost 11 years), but, not in any way easier months left. Hold on, my dear!”

Lyudmila Ulitskaya, author:

“Good day, Platon. I congratulate you on your birthday. 57 years is a good age, and, it will be even better when you will be free. You will have many years to live, work, and be happy. We are looking forward to your return. Come back soon, all the best.”

Georgy Alexanyan, father of Vasily Alexanyan:

“Congratulations. I am wishing you health and long years. Vasily was dreaming of giving you a hug in freedom. I wish that his dream about your freedom will come true.”

Liya Akhedzhakova, actress:

“How much I want you to come out of these dungeons as strong, unbroken, and wonderful person that you are. I am counting on you, and the only thing that I wish you is health, health, and once more, health.”