Putin claims he considered Navalny’s swap

Russian President Vladimir Putin last week made a mention of his political opponent, Alexei Navalny, during a press conference at Moscow’s Gostiny Dvor, addressing the recent events surrounding Navalny’s death in the Yamal colony and alleged talks on his swap. 

Putin described Navalny’s “passing” as a “tragic occurrence” and indicated his willingness to entertain the possibility of an exchange, on the condition that Navalny never returned to Russia. He revealed that the suggestion for such an exchange with Western countries came from individuals outside his administration.

“In the midst of conversation, the proposal was raised, and I swiftly assented. However, regrettably, events unfolded as they did,” Putin remarked, drawing attention to fatalities in US prisons as well.

Earlier, Maria Pevchikh, a close associate of Navalny and the head of the International Anti-Corruption Foundation, disclosed in a video statement that negotiations for Navalny’s exchange were reportedly in the final stages on February 15], while Navalny passed away the following day. 

Pevchikh detailed that the proposed exchange involved Navalny for Vadim Krasikov, a Russian intelligence operative convicted in Germany for the assassination of Chechen separatist leader from Georgia’s Pankisi gorge Zelimkhan Khangoshvili.

Navalny, a prominent Kremlin critic and anti-corruption activist, died on February 16 in the colony under emergency circumstances. While the official report attributed his death to “natural causes”, many of Navalny’s supporters allege foul play.

Following Navalny’s demise, numerous vigils and demonstrations were held both within Russia and internationally in his honor. Over 16,000 individuals attended his funeral in Moscow, underscoring the profound impact of his legacy.