Russian trial against Kurt Pelda: “Don’t let me be intimidated”

Interview

Kurt Pelda faces up to five years in prison because he reported from Russian territory – i.e. did his job. This is what the experienced journalist says about it.

Fabian Hock / ch media

The Russian secret service is opening a case against you. Did the news surprise you?

No, that was to be expected. Almost a month ago, my name was mentioned in a press conference at the Russian Foreign Ministry. So it was only a matter of time before it happened. Although it has to be mentioned that I wouldn’t expect any legal process in Russia.

How will this affect your work as a war reporter?

I will be even more careful than before and avoid countries that are friends of Russia in the future.

Which?

For example Mali, Niger or Burkina Faso. Of course also Iran and Syria or Venezuela, where I used to be often. I can now cross North Korea off my list of travel destinations.

You are regularly deployed in Ukraine. Does anything change for you here?

No, I will continue to work there as usual. I feel safer from Russian influence in Ukraine than, for example, in Switzerland.

Will you ever travel to Russia again?

If I have another opportunity to travel to Russia with the Ukrainians, I will probably take it. I won’t be intimidated.

Where are you now and what will be your next stop?

I am currently in Israel, a very safe country for me. In the future, however, I will talk less about my travel plans than before. That would be imprudent.

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