Following the sudden and swift pardon of political prisoner Mikhail Khodorkovsky by Russian President Vladimir Putin, a number of prominent Russians have come forward with reactions.

Alexei Kudrin: “I welcome the release of Mikhail Khodorkovsky. Landmark event.”

Vladimir Kara-Murza: “Whatever caused it, including family circumstances, it is certainly a positive, landmark step for our country and our society. I congratulate all those who have waited for so long for this day.”

Sergei Guriev: “I think this is great news. I believe that Mikhail Khodorkovsky was accused falsely, at least for the second case. Very well that he will be released. This is good news for his family, friends, the country and the overall investment climate. I do not know why this decision was made right now, but I am very happy and congratulate Mikhail Khodorkovsky. I also think it is good news for the government, because the government is probably doing what, in the end, will allow for a peaceful transformation of the regime.“

Vladimir Lukin: “I can only say that I am very glad and happy that this long painful, tragic story that cast a shadow over many events and many people came to an end. I’m not ready and will not participate in the discussion how, why and who started it, who is to blame, I am not a judge. I just congratulate everyone, who it touched upon, that it came to an end.”

Mikhail Kasyanov: “I am very glad that Mikhail Khodorkovsky will be certainly freed until July. But once again hypocrisy and cynicism of the current government and its leaders amazes me: they try to present themselves in public opinion as compassionate rulers releasing a man, who spent 10 years in prison because of the trumped-up charges and unjust decision.“

Yuriy Shevchuk, singer: “I am just very happy with what happened; thank God! I have already called up my friends. My friend calls Khodorkovsky’s parents. Mikhail Khodorkovsky’s mother is very ill. Nobody knows why Michael wrote a pardon petition, but in any case, parents are sacred. President received hundreds or even thousands of letters asking to pardon Khodorkovsky.”

See how after the news about a possible pardon indices immediately rushed up. The investment attractiveness of Russia Immediately increased. Just by a half percent, all stocks increased immediately. Unfortunately, I do not have any stocks. But still, it is a plus for Russia. The market reacted just instantly.”

Read more reactions from other prominent Russians on Khodorkovsky.ru.