“Boris Nemtsov was a true hero and leader. His murder was a tragedy not just for his family and friends but for his country and the world."

Washington - Senator Johnson released this statement following passage Tuesday, by unanimous consent, of his resolution honoring the life of Boris Nemtsov. The resolution was cosponsored by 20 senators.

“Boris Nemtsov was a true hero and leader. His murder was a tragedy not just for his family and friends but for his country and the world. He fought tirelessly to combat the expanding corruption of Russia’s government under Vladimir Putin, which dims the hopes of its citizens even as the increasingly authoritarian nature of the regime rightly concerns all who hope for peace.  Nemtsov’s stand against the Putin regime’s destabilizing actions toward Ukraine brought faith to all who believe that peace should prevail and aggression must be stopped.

“President Obama called Mr. Nemtsov a ‘tireless advocate’ for the rights of Russian citizens. He was right, and I hope he will take advantage of Mr. Nemtsov’s wisdom by following his recommendation for sanctioning additional human rights violators under the ‘Magnitsky Act.’  

"America is a beacon of hope to freedom-loving people around the world.  We must provide leadership and support to those who seek liberty in their own lands. Tragically, Mr. Nemtsov is now gone, but for generations to come, his courage will continue to inspire anyone longing to be free."

###