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Russia expects reply from US to its request for extradition of Bout, Yaroshenko

Lukashevich recalled that Russia still regarded the verdicts passed on Russian citizens as groundless and politicized

MOSCOW, September 20 (Itar-Tass) —— Russia is waiting for the United States’ response to its request for the extradition of Viktor Bout and Alexander Yaroshenko, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman said on Thursday.

“We keep a close watch on the situations involving Bout and Yaroshenko,” the diplomat said. “We shall keep pressing for their return home.”

Lukashevich recalled that Russia still regarded the verdicts passed on Russian citizens as groundless and politicized.

The US Department of Justice has been asked for the extradition of both convicts on the basis of the Council of Europe Convention of 1983 for serving prison terms at home.

“There has been no response yet,” Lukashevich said.

The Russian embassy and consulate in the United States maintain permanent contact with Viktor Bout and Konstantin Yaroshenko and furnish the necessary support.

Lukashevich did not rule out that the process of their repatriation may last long.