White House condemns Russian crackdown on protesters

The White House on Monday rebuked the Russian government for arresting hundreds of protesters who gathered for massive demonstrations on Monday. 

“The United States strongly condemns the detention of hundreds of peaceful protesters throughout Russia,” said White House press secretary Sean Spicer.  

{mosads}“Detaining peaceful protesters and journalists is an affront to core democratic values,” he continued. “The United States will monitor the situation and we will call on the government Russia to immediately release all peaceful protesters. The Russian people, like people everywhere, deserve a government that supports an open marketplace of ideas, transparent and accountable governance, equal treatment under the law and the ability to exercise their right without fear or retribution.” 

Thousands of protesters gathered for separate rallies across Russia on Monday to protest corruption and Russian President Vladimir Putin’s administration. 

Hundreds were arrested, including opposition leader Alexei Navalny.