Russia has formally labeled Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., as a “terrorist and extremist” following his condemnation of the Russian government’s role in the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny.
Graham’s addition to the list was announced by Russia’s state financial watchdog on Tuesday. The senator had squarely blamed Russian President Vladimir Putin for Navalny’s demise and advocated for the U.S. to designate Russia as a state sponsor of terrorism.
Expressing his views in a CBS interview, Graham hailed Navalny as one of the bravest individuals he had ever met and asserted that Putin was culpable for his murder. He echoed President Biden’s warning to Putin, advocating for repercussions against Russia.
Graham humorously reacted to his inclusion on Russia’s list, quipping on social media about losing his rubles and alluding to future actions against Putin’s regime.
Graham’s confrontational stance toward Russia dates back to the country’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Last year, Russia issued a warrant for Graham’s arrest following his comments about U.S. military assistance to Ukraine. Despite the warrant, Graham remained steadfast in his support for Ukraine’s sovereignty, considering the warrant as a “Badge of Honor” and reaffirming his commitment to Ukraine’s freedom.
Graham’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the matter. The senator’s outspoken criticism of Russia’s actions underscores the ongoing tensions between the United States and Russia, particularly concerning issues like human rights violations and geopolitical disputes.