Following the announcement that Mikhail Khodorkovsky was granted a Schengen visa by the Swiss authorities there has been considerable speculation and interest in his travel plans. We can confirm that Mr Khodorkovsky arrived in Switzerland today, travelling by train from Berlin.

The purpose of his visit is a family matter, as he and his wife are accompanying their two sons back to school in Switzerland.

Mikhail Khodorkovsky is grateful for the principled positions taken by the Swiss authorities over the many years of his unjust imprisonment. The Swiss judicial authorities were quick to recognise the politicised nature of Mr Khodorkovsky’s prosecution.

He is, as previously stated, delighted that Switzerland is the second country in which he can breathe the air of freedom. Mr Khodorkovsky and his family are thankful to Switzerland for providing this opportunity, and will appreciate the time and space to cherish this special time together.

Mikhail Khodorkovsky has not yet made any plans about permanent residency in Switzerland or anywhere else.