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| Topics: Security/International :: Domestic :: JRL :: Firefox-optimal :: site feedback | |||||||||||||||||
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#4 - JRL 8399 - JRL Home Mikhail Fridman, the head of the apolitical Alfa Group, admits that Mikhail Khodorkovsky’s run-in with the Russian authorities was sparked by his involvement in politics. Alfa Group, one of Russia’s largest privately-owned consortiums with interests in oil and gas, and commercial and investment banking, has always been exceptionally affable towards the authorities, while its co-owner, Mikhail Fridman repeatedly tried to dissuade Mikhail Khodorkovsky from crossing swords with the Kremlin, writes the Vedomosti business daily. Many top Russian businessmen claim that Alfa denied the former Yukos CEO any support in his conflict with the Kremlin, saying that the oil tycoon had only himself to blame for his problems. “True, I had talked several times with Khodorkovsky before he was placed in a remand prison, and unambiguously told him that we absolutely disagree with his political initiatives, both in terms of his public support to various political parties and recruiting potential Duma members,” Fridman told Vedomosti. “I talked to him several times in the presence of other members of the RSPP (Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs) and once privately. I truly believe that what has happened to Khodorkovsky is largely motivated and inspired by himself alone. In my opinion, it was erroneous and detrimental to go that far in opposing the authorities. On the other hand, his being in remand is a great tragedy, both for him personally and the public.” Fridman believes that Khodorkovsky poses no threat to the public and feels a deep sympathy for him, despite his disapproval of his business and public activities. Fridman denied allegations that he has insured himself against political risks and would leave the country should he have any problems with the authorities. He expressed the hope that Alfa Group would not have any such problems as long as its business is legal and law-abiding.
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