The Russian writer and prominent public figure, Irina Khakamada, referred to Mikhail Khodorkovsky’s views on the Bolotnaya Case defendants, during an interview in the Itogi magazine, she said:

“I was listening carefully to all of Khodorkovsky’s interviews, he did not disown the Bolotniks – he supported them. But he moved away from politics, which is not surprising. Politics has never really interested him. He only founded a big oil business, which in Russia cannot exist beyond politics. Of course, he needed a lobby in the Parliament. That is why he was supporting the Liberals and the Communists to ensure their votes. In other words, he was lobbying. But, in reality Khodorkovsky was keen on big business and humanitarian projects. And now he has hinted that he wants to continue doing just that. When Yevgenia Albats and other friends were telling me that Khodorkovsky is the future President, I was discreetly silent, because I knew that there is no point in arguing. This is not the case. Khodorkovsky is not the archetypal President. Besides, surviving in prison conditions for ten years will turn anyone into a wise man. And a wise man knows everything about their own self. Khodorkovsky has huge authority, so his opinion will always be heard. I think, he is quite satisfied with that.”