Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday dismissed the Panama Papers leak that linked his associates to more than $2 billion in offshore funds as just a shadowy U.S.-backed “provocation” of Russia.
“They must understand that the issue is not about specific people, individuals, no matter what position they hold in Russia,” Putin said in remarks reported by Reuters. “The issue is about the country, which cannot be manipulated.”
Putin also defended his friend, cellist Sergei Roldugin, who was named in the documents. The Kremlin had already dismissed the entire leak as merely an attempt to damage Putin and Russia’s credibility before upcoming parliamentary elections.
[Reuters]
More Must-Reads From TIME
- Jane Fonda Champions Climate Action for Every Generation
- Biden’s Campaign Is In Trouble. Will the Turnaround Plan Work?
- Why We're Spending So Much Money Now
- The Financial Influencers Women Actually Want to Listen To
- Breaker Sunny Choi Is Heading to Paris
- Why TV Can’t Stop Making Silly Shows About Lady Journalists
- The Case for Wearing Shoes in the House
- Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time
Write to Julia Zorthian at julia.zorthian@time.com