(ANSA) - BRUSSELS, JANUARY 17 - "The European Union has been clear in considering the accusation and the verdict against Alexei Navalnye as politically motivated. We reiterate our appeal to the Russian authorities for his immediate and unconditional release without further delay and to respect the provisional measure granted by the European Court of Human Rights as regards the nature and extent of the risk to Navalny's life ".
This was stated by the head of EU diplomacy, Josep Borrell, on the occasion of the anniversary of the arrest of Navalny on his return to Russia.
"We regret that Navalny must now face new criminal charges."
(HANDLE).
