Khodorkovsky: will work for political prisoners

FRANK JORDANS Associated Press Published:

BERLIN (AP) -- Former Russian oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovsky is vowing to do all he can to ensure the release of political prisoners in Russia after his pardon and release.

Khodorkovsky spoke at a packed and tumultuous news conference in Berlin on Sunday, two days after he was released and immediately flew to Germany.

The 50-year-old said he shouldn't be viewed as a symbol that there are no political prisoners in Russia and said he would do "all I can do" to ensure the release of others.

He thanked media pressure for helping secure his release.