They told me then. and have told me many times since the visit. that they are counting on world pressure to help advance their case. Many individuals and organizations devoted time and energy to help them. but their case remained in limbo. Then. in late December last year. 3 1/2 years after entering the Embassy. Lidiya Vashchenko and her mother. Augustina. went on a hunger strike protesting Soviet refusal to allow them to emigrate. But the Soviets were not moved. They held fast to their position that the Seven must return to their native town. Chernogorsk and apply in order to emigrate. Lidiyas condition deteriorated so drastically that she was removed to Moscows Botkin Hospital. While she was recuperating.
Keywords matched
emigrate