Russian President Vladimir Putin has responded to questions regarding the deaths of Alexei Navalny and Boris Nadezhdin, who was not allowed to run in the election. Meduza reported Putin's remarks during a press conference following the election on March 18.
In response to a question from an NBC reporter about Alexei Navalny, Putin acknowledged the circumstances surrounding Navalny's imprisonment and subsequent death. "This is life," Putin remarked. He attributed Nadezhdin's exclusion from the election to inadequate preparation and failure to garner the necessary support. Putin emphasized the importance of diligence and avoidance of errors in the election process.
Regarding Navalny's demise, Putin expressed condolences, referring to it as a "sad event." He also disclosed discussions of exchanging Navalny for Russian prisoners held in Western countries, indicating his willingness to agree to such a swap.
"A few days before Mr. Navalny's death, some colleagues...suggested replacing Navalny with individuals imprisoned in Western countries," Putin recounted.
He clarified his condition for the exchange, stipulating that Navalny would not return to prison upon release.
Putin's remarks offer insight into the complexities surrounding Navalny's imprisonment and the broader political landscape in Russia. The exchange proposal underscores the diplomatic considerations at play amidst tensions with Western nations.
Initial figures released by the Central Election Commission (CEC) in the ongoing Russian presidential election indicate that President Vladimir Putin has garnered a significant advantage, obtaining 87.97% of the votes following the tabulation of 24.4% of the electoral protocols.
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