Biden Blames Putin for Navalny’s Death, Urges Ukraine Aid

President Joe Biden blamed Russian President Vladimir Putin for the reported death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, stating unequivocally, “Putin is responsible for Navalny’s death.” The accusation came shortly after Russian officials announced Navalny’s death in prison.

Biden condemned Putin, labeling the incident as further evidence of Putin’s brutality, stating that Putin “inflicts terrible crimes on his own people.” He expressed confidence in the reports of Navalny’s death, stating, “We don’t know exactly what happened, but there is no doubt that the death of Navalny was the consequence of something Putin and his thugs did.”

The president praised Navalny as “brave,” “principled,” and dedicated to building a Russia where the rule of law exists. Biden had previously warned of “devastating” consequences if Navalny died in prison, but he declined to specify those consequences, stating only that the U.S. is considering a range of options.

Biden also criticized Republicans for leaving Washington without addressing a Senate-approved bill providing additional aid to Ukraine, calling their actions “bizarre” and “outrageous.” He warned that their refusal to take up the legislation is causing “real concern about the United States being a reliable ally.”

In a crucial quote, Biden emphasized the importance of supporting Ukraine, stating, “History is watching the House of Representatives. The failure to support Ukraine at this critical moment will never be forgotten.” He urged action, saying, “We have to help now.”

Biden also took aim at former President Donald Trump for suggesting he would allow Russia to “do whatever the hell they want” to NATO allies that don’t meet spending guidelines. Biden called Trump’s statement “outrageous” and reaffirmed the U.S.’ commitment to the alliance, stating, “The United States will defend every inch of NATO territory.”

Navalny’s reported death followed his return to Russia in 2021 after being treated in Germany for poisoning with a Soviet-era nerve agent. He was imprisoned in the Arctic autonomous region of Yamal-Nenets, serving multiple sentences for various charges. Despite his incarceration, Navalny continued to oppose Putin through social media and YouTube, sharply criticizing Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.