Press release

Minister for Europe statement on Nadiya Savchenko

Minister for Europe David Lidington urges Russia to end the unlawful imprisonment of Nadiya Savchenko as she starts a dry hunger strike.

• From: Foreign & Commonwealth Office and The Rt Hon David Lidington CBE
• Published: 4 March 2016
• Last updated: 5 March 2016 — See all updates

Speaking after the latest court hearing was adjourned Minister for Europe, the Rt Hon David Lidington MP said:

I am extremely concerned by reports that Ukrainian national Nadiya Savchenko is now refusing liquids as well as food in protest against her ongoing illegal detention in Russia.

The UK Government has repeatedly called on the Russian Government to end her unlawful imprisonment.

A dry hunger strike poses a very real and immediate threat to Ms Savchenko’s life. I strongly urge the Russian Government to show compassion and release her immediately.

Background:

Ukrainian pilot Nadiya Savchenko was captured in Ukraine in June 2014 and illegally transferred across the border into Russia. She has been in detention in Russia ever since.

Further information

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Published 4 March 2016
Last updated 5 March 2016 + show all updates

1. 5 March 2016

   Added translation

2. 4 March 2016

   First published.