Statement by Matina released on 16 October 2011 in London

Dear Friends,

Last Thursday H.M. Coroner indicated that he is inclined to hold a full inquest into the death of my husband. I am prepared to do whatever it takes to find the truth about the unprecedented act of nuclear terrorism that killed Sasha Litvinenko and endangered the lives of thousands of my fellow Londoners.

To judge from inquests of similar complexity, such as those into the deaths of Princess Diana and the victims of the 7/7 bombings, these hearings may last weeks, if not months. At the very least, my legal costs are likely to run into six figures.

In these proceedings the evidence collected by the Metropolitan Police will be weighed against the story presented by Sasha's accused murderer and his sponsors, with the unlimited resources of the Russian state at their disposal. I am sure that my legal team is the best in the world, but the reality is that compared to my adversaries I am severely constrained.

This I why I am appealing to the public for help. It is my battle, and that of my dedicated friends. But it is not only ours. Over the past five years I have been deeply touched by the overwhelming support from thousands of people in the UK and around the world and their many offers of help. I know that I can still count on them.

So I am taking this opportunity to announce a fundraising campaign for my legal expenses fund, which will be administered through our "Litvinenko Justice Foundation" at http://www.litvinenko.org.uk

Please help me expose the murderers of my husband.

Marina Litvinenko

London

As for suggested donation, I would suggest donating at least $5, unless you're keen on making PayPal rich, as they charge a transaction fee of 2.9% + $0.30 USD. For example, if you were to donate $1, PayPal takes 33 cents, but for a 5$ donation, PayPal takes away 45 cents. However, any size donation is greatly appreciated.

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