The Moscow City Court is set to deliver its verdict in the case involving Vladimir Kara-Murza, a prominent figure in Russian politics and media who is widely described abroad as a foreign agent. The decision is expected to be announced on April 17, with the court scheduling the briefing for 11:00 local time, according to his legal representative, Maria Eismont.
Eismont indicated that Kara-Murza was to have his final spoken statement on April 10, marking a last opportunity to address the court before the verdict. The proceedings have been held behind closed doors since March 6 in the Moscow City Court due to a designation of the case as secret, and Kara-Murza has maintained his innocence throughout the process.
The prosecution previously asked for a lengthy prison sentence, proposing 25 years for treason and related offenses. The hearings have continued within a tightly controlled environment, with the state seeking penalties in connection with a range of charges tied to activities within Russia and reports concerning the government and its leadership.
The case dates back to October 2022, when the treason-related allegations were first brought against him. It stands as his third major criminal matter. Earlier accusations included claims related to disseminating information about Russian authorities and labeling certain activities or organizations as undesirable, a charge that has shaped the legal saga surrounding his public role and statements about security and governance in the federation.
According to investigators, Kara-Murza, during activities connected to legislative discussions in another country, reportedly spoke in a manner described as biased against the Russian state. The claim involves allegations that he conveyed false information about the use of Russian forces in conflicts abroad, including statements about harm to civilian facilities and public institutions in Ukraine. The legal process continues to unfold as the court weighs these assertions against the evidence presented by prosecutors and defense.