WASHINGTON (AP) — U.S. intelligence officials have determined that Russian President Vladimir Putin likely didn’t order the death of imprisoned opposition leader Alexei Navalny in February, according to an official familiar with the determination.
While U.S. officials believe Putin was ultimately responsible for the death of Navalny, who endured brutal conditions during his confinement, the intelligence community has found “no smoking gun” that Putin was aware of the timing of Navalny’s death — which came soon before the Russian president’s reelection — or directly ordered it, according to the official.
The official spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss the sensitive matter.
Soon after Navalny’s death, U.S. President Joe Biden said Putin was ultimately responsible but did not accuse the Russian president of directly ordering it.
Iraq repatriates nearly 700 more citizens linked to the Islamic State group from a Syrian camp
South China Sea news: Chinese media slams Australian warship at centre of sonar incident
NZ public service job cuts: what we know so far
Will Stonehenge lose its Unesco World Heritage status?
Promotional event helps Chinese films 'go global'
OJ Simpson death: Who was he, was he ever convicted, and why was he acquitted?
WHO asks China for more information on spike in pediatric respiratory illnesses
Missing Chinese exchange student found cold and scared in Utah
Russia says Moscow terror attack suspects planned to flee to Kiev for reward
Two arrested in relation to gun attack on rugby players' team van
Oklahoma towns hard hit by tornadoes begin long cleanup after 4 killed in weekend storms
OJ Simpson death: Who was he, was he ever convicted, and why was he acquitted?