OSCE Representative disappointed after third extension to Kirill Vyshinsky’s pre-trial detention in Ukraine, reiterates call for his release

VIENNA, 1 November 2018 – The OSCE Representative on Freedom of the Media, Harlem Désir, today expressed his disappointment after a court decision in Ukraine extended for the third time the pre-trial detention of bureau chief of the RIA Novosti Ukraine news agency, Kirill Vyshinsky.

“I reiterate my call on the Ukrainian authorities to expedite the investigation on Vyshinsky, and to release the journalist,” Désir said. “Journalists have the right to express dissenting views and to report on issues that could be considered controversial, sensitive or offensive without any fear of retaliation.”

On 1 November, the Kherson City Court extended Vyshinsky’s pre-trial detention until 28 December 2018. It had previously been extended twice in July and in September 2018. He was arrested on 15 May 2018.

The Representative has earlier raised his concern on this case, see: https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/401453 and https://www.osce.org/representative-on-freedom-of-media/381370