Putin says Navalny's name for the first time - after declaring victory in sham vote
Putin acknowledges Navalny's death for the first time publicly after Russian presidential elections.
- Bilawal Riaz
- 1 min read

Vladimir Putin mentioned the late opposition figure Alexei Navalny for the first time publicly after claiming victory in the Russian presidential elections. Putin described Navalny’s death as a “sad event” and stated he had approved a prisoner swap offer involving Navalny. Navalny died in prison last month under disputed circumstances. Putin’s comments provoked anger from Navalny’s team, who accused Putin of involvement in Navalny’s death. Critics noted the significance of Putin finally acknowledging Navalny following the election, as state media had previously downplayed Navalny’s death. Amnesty International called for an international inquiry into Navalny’s death, highlighting Russia’s lack of initiative in this regard.