Letter to EBRD and EIB regarding violent clashes in the Khimki forest connected to the Moscow-St.Petersburg motorway

On the morning of July 22, members of civil society were attacked by scores of unidentified assailants. The police, called to the scene by the protestors, chose not to interfere. Reports from the ground indicate that clashes continued before the passively observing police eventually arrested local activists.

The attacks on these protestors follow a blockade that was established by the Movement to Defend Khimki Forest in response to the illegal felling of trees in the forest. Estimates are that nearly seven hectares have been destroyed already.

Bankwatch believes that the European Investment Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development should immediately drop considerations to finance this project, as it is associated with violence and negligence of the local public interest.

More information on our project page for the Moscow - St.Petersburg motorway.