"I thank everyone for their care, support and massive efforts aimed at changing my current status and achieving my release … 'The heavy chains will fall apart,' sooner, or later… Hopefully, next year we will see each other! Happy New Year", Vyshinsky said in the letter, citing the great Russian poet Alexander Pushkin.
Vyshinsky pointed out that he was in good spirits and wished his colleagues good health, success and happiness in their families.
Harlem Desir, the representative on freedom of the media at the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), has also expressed his concern over Ukraine's actions toward Vyshinsky and called for the journalist's release. Commenting on the situation, OSCE Secretary General Thomas Greminger has said that all OSCE member states should comply with international standards and avoid interfering in the media's work.
On May 17, the Kherson court ruled to remand Vyshinsky in custody. The defence appealed the arrest, but the court dismissed the appeal. During a court hearing, Vyshinsky asked for help from Russian President Vladimir Putin. He also said that he would give up his Ukrainian citizenship.
