Analyse
The quote appears verbatim in a 2013 interview published by The Guardian, where Khodorkovsky discussed his post‑prison goals and his view of Russia's rule of law. The wording matches the statement provided, confirming its authenticity. No credible source disputes the attribution.
Achtergrond
Mikhail Khodorkovsky, once Russia's richest man, was imprisoned for ten years on charges widely seen as politically motivated. After his release in 2013, he gave several media interviews outlining his desire to be seen as a reformer rather than an oligarch. The Guardian interview captured his sentiments about law and governance in Russia.
Samenvatting verdict
Khodorkovsky indeed said he does not want to be remembered as an oligarch but as someone who helped Russia become a normal country.