"The conviction of opposition leader Alexei Navalny bears all the signs of a politically motivated trial. The arbitrary nature of the proceedings violates the human rights obligations that Russia itself signed up to as a member of the Council of Europe."

"I sincerely hope that Mr Navalny will be given a fair and just hearing in the appellate court." 

"Navalny's conviction underscores the recent disturbing trend of deteriorating conditions in the rule of law and political pluralism in Russia."

"The EU must strengthen its policy of critical engagement, working with all relevant actors to improve the human rights situation and state of political pluralism and democracy in Russia."

http://www.socialistsanddemocrats.eu, 18.7.2013