Mikhail Khodorkovsky

Mikhail Khodorkovsky is a Russian former oligarch, businessman, and political activist who became one of the most prominent figures in post-Soviet Russia. Born in Moscow in 1963, he initially studied chemical engineering before making his fortune in the oil industry. Khodorkovsky became the CEO of Yukos, one of Russia's largest and most profitable oil companies, and was once considered the wealthiest man in Russia. His rise to prominence was tied to the controversial privatization of Russian state assets in the 1990s, which earned him both immense wealth and considerable political influence.

However, Khodorkovsky’s career took a dramatic turn in 2003 when he was arrested on charges of fraud and tax evasion, widely believed to be politically motivated. He was convicted and sentenced to prison, where he spent a decade before being pardoned in 2013. During his time in prison, Khodorkovsky became a vocal critic of Vladimir Putin and the Russian government's corruption, positioning himself as an advocate for democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. He has since been active in global politics, founding the Open Russia movement to promote reform and encourage political change in Russia.

In interviews, Khodorkovsky has often spoken about his experiences and his vision for Russia’s future. He once said, "The real fight is not against the government, but for freedom and justice. Russia will never move forward until it embraces true democracy." His advocacy for political reform and human rights has made him a symbol of resistance against authoritarianism, and despite his controversial past, he continues to be a significant figure in global political discourse.