Statement by the Yabloko Federal Bureau of 14.10.2025, published on 17.10.2025

Photo: Maxim Kruglov / Photo by the Yabloko Press Service

The Federal Bureau of the Yabloko Party expresses protest against the politically motivated persecution of Maxim Kruglov and resolute disagreement with the charges brought against him.

For 20 years we have known Maxim as an honest, principled and responsible politician for whom serving society has always been the main work of his life. In the 2019 Moscow City Duma elections, Maxim Kruglov received the trust of more than 15,000 Muscovites and led the Yabloko faction. He has always acted within the law, openly and consistently defended the interests of his voters, protected civil rights and advocated for a peaceful and free future for Russia.

All his public statements and actions were aimed at reducing the level of violence and confrontation, seeking peaceful solutions and respecting human life. We are convinced that the charges brought against Maxim Kruglov have no real grounds whatsoever and are part of political pressure on independent voices.

The repressive legislation adopted in recent years allows arbitrary interpretation of statements by citizens of the Russian Federation for the purpose of their criminal prosecution. We emphasise once again: such legislation must be immediately repealed.

The persecution of Kruglov is yet another blow against all those in Russia who maintain their own opinion and openly advocate for peace. The Yabloko party demands the immediate release of Maxim Kruglov and the termination of the criminal case against him.

We will strive for observance of the constitutional right to freedom of speech, provide Maxim Kruglov with all necessary support and continue to defend our position — for peace, human rights, the freedom and dignity of Russian citizens.

Nikolai Rybakov,

Yabloko Chairman