WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chairman of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee on European Affairs, released the following statement on the conviction of Alexei Navalny, an anti-corruption activist and prominent critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin:

I am deeply disappointed and disturbed by today’s conviction of Alexei Navalny.  As the Kremlin itself made clear, the charges against him were politically motivated, and this ruling makes the world wonder whether Russia is more committed to attacks on political dissidence than it is to the rule of law. Unfortunately, this is only the latest in a string of high profile cases pursued against those who challenge the ruling authorities. Navalny should be released immediately and allowed to continue his campaign for Mayor of Moscow.  

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