Moscow suspected in orchestrated attack on Navalny ally in Vilnius
13 March 2024 16:34
The State Security Department (VSD) released a statement stating: "It is likely that the operation was organized and executed by Russia to impede the implementation of initiatives concerning the forthcoming undemocratic presidential elections in Russia." The presidential elections in Russia are set to be held from March 15 to March 17.
The attack on Volkov was planned
Lithuania's President, Gitanas Nauseda, voiced his stance on the incident, indicating that the attack on Volkov "was premeditated and is associated with other provocations against Lithuania". Nauseda, who is currently in Paris, also mentioned a noticeable rise in incidents of desecration of the Lithuanian flag and monuments within the nation. The President highlighted that these incidents are orchestrated, yet he reassured that in Lithuania, "no one is afraid" of Vladimir Putin.
Agne Bilotaite, the Lithuanian Minister of the Interior, asserted that "the situation is being handled seriously, yet with composure". At a joint press conference with the chief commander of the Lithuanian police, Renatas Požela, she stated, "The authorities are performing their duties, an investigation has been initiated, and various theories are being explored". Bilotaite also observed that "provocations have become part of our daily lives (...), and their frequency is expected to rise as the elections in Russia draw near".
The chief commander of the Lithuanian police, Renatas Požela, confirmed that the police dedicated "significant resources" to investigate the attack on Volkov and are carrying out thorough investigative work.
Volkov called for protests
Leonid Volkov, the former chief of staff for the recently deceased Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, was attacked on Tuesday evening in Vilnius. The assailant broke the window of Volkov's car, sprayed him with tear gas, and then assaulted him with a hammer. At the end of February, Volkov urged for protests during the elections in Russia, highlighting that this is "Alexei Navalny's direct political legacy".
Source: PAP
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