Russian authorities should take urgent measures to address the potentially devastating consequences should COVID-19 begin spreading among prisoners and detainees, Amnesty International said in a letter to Russian government agencies. At least 9,000 of Russia’s 519,600-strong prison population are over 60-years-old, and many more in poor health.
Amnesty International: Russia should address potential COVID-19 risks for prisoners
A woman carrying bags of food walks towards the entrance to the Lefortovo prison, where Paul Whelan, an American ex-Marine who Russian prosecutors have charged with espionage, is held, Moscow, Jan. 16, 2019.
