| CHICAGO,
IL – U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) today called on Spanish
authorities to immediately release Vladimir Goussinsky, a leader of the
Jewish community in Russia. Schakowsky joins Jewish leaders and organizations,
including the World Jewish Congress, in calling for Goussinky’s release.
In
a letter to the Honorable Javier Ruperez, Spanish Ambassador to the United
States, Schakowsky wrote, “I believe that your government should release
Mr. Goussinsky and certainly should not allow for his extradition.”
Goussinky was arrested in Spain on fraud allegations at the request of
Russian authorities. Russian authorities are working to secure his
extradition.
Below
is Schakowsky’s letter to the Ambassador.
The
Honorable Javier Ruperez
Spanish
Ambassador to the United States
2375
Pennsylvania Avenue, NW.
Washington,
DC 20037
Dear
Ambassador Ruperez:
I
am writing to you because I am concerned after hearing news that Spanish
authorities yesterday in Spain arrested Vladimir Goussinsky.
As
you know, a warrant was issued for Mr. Goussinsky and his recent arrest
was done at the request of Russian officials. I strongly believe
that the reason Russian authorities are targeting Mr. Goussinsky is politically
motivated and I am not convinced that there is sufficient evidence of criminal
activity by Mr. Goussinsky to validate the arrest warrant issued by the
Moscow branch of Interpol. I believe that your government should
release Mr. Goussinsky and certainly should not allow for his extradition.
I
would appreciate it if you would share my views with the appropriate authorities
in Spain.
Sincerely,
Jan Schakowsky
Member of Congress |
