Berlin: Vladimir Kara-Murza, a prominent exiled Russian journalist, has divulged harrowing details of an alleged poisoning incident he endured while aboard a German train bound for Paris. The journalist believes he was intentionally targeted by the Russian government, driven by his vocal criticism of their policies.
Kara-Murza recounted his distressing experience, describing feeling unwell and dizzy shortly after embarking on the train journey from Berlin to Paris on September 2. His condition deteriorated rapidly, necessitating his transfer to a Parisian hospital, where medical professionals attended to him for suspected poisoning.
This is not the first instance Kara-Murza has been subjected to such an ordeal. He previously survived a poisoning incident in 2015, which he also attributes to attempts to silence his outspoken critiques against the Russian government.
The German government has confirmed its initiation of an investigation into the matter. However, the Russian government has categorically denied any involvement in the incident.
Kara-Murza's resolve to persist in his work remains undeterred, despite the inherent risks. As a co-founder of the Open Russia movement, he tirelessly advocates for democracy and human rights within Russia.
Kara-Murza boarded the train from Berlin to Paris on September 2. His health rapidly deteriorated, marked by feelings of sickness and dizziness shortly after departure. The journalist was transported to a Paris hospital for immediate medical attention, prompted by concerns of possible poisoning.
An ongoing investigation by the German government seeks to ascertain the circumstances surrounding the incident. The Russian government's denial of involvement in the incident casts a shadow of intrigue over the case.
Kara-Murza's predicament mirrors a recurring pattern of poisonings targeting Russian dissenters and critics of the government. Notably, the 2018 poisoning of former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter Yulia in Salisbury, England, remains a stark illustration of such targeted attacks. The UK government has unequivocally pointed to Russia's culpability in that instance.
These incidents serve as potent reminders of the grave perils faced by individuals who challenge the Russian government's narrative. Simultaneously, they underscore the imperative for the global community to hold Russia accountable for transgressions against human rights and international norms.
