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Vladimir Putin's annual press conference

Khodorkovsky has right to engage in politics, Putin says

“When I decided to pardon him, I did not take into consideration what he could do or not to do or whether he would engage in politics," President Vladimir Putin said

Mikhail Khodorkovsky EPA/KAY NIETFELD

Mikhail Khodorkovsky

© EPA/KAY NIETFELD

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Key statements of Vladimir Putin's tenth annual press conference

MOSCOW, December 18. /TASS/. Former oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky has the right to engage in politics. It is his choice, Russian President Vladimir Putin told his annual news conference.

Mr. Khodorkovsky asked to pardon him, at least he sent a corresponding paper, and "it seemed that he did not intend to engage in politics,” Putin said

“But when I decided to pardon him, I did not take into consideration what he could do or not to do or whether he would engage in politics. It is his choice and he has the right to do it, as any other Russian citizen, if he fits, including to be elected to high positions in the country.”

"Let him work," the president said.

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Vladimir Putin Mikhail Khodorkovsky

Terrorist attack at Crocus City Hall

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