Court hands Russian opposition leader, Alexei Navalny 5-year suspended sentence

The Leninsky District Court in Russia has handed opposition leader, Aleksey Navalny a five-year suspended sentence after finding him guilty of embezzlement, a move which may undermine his plans to run for president against Vladimir Putin in 2018. Navalny was found guilty of embezzlement in relation to a timber firm called Kirovles.

Appearing before the district court Wednesday, February 8, 2017, Judge Aleksey Vtyurin gave him a five year suspended prison sentence. He was also fined him 500,000 roubles ($8,442.04).
Speaking to pressmen, Navalny said he would appeal against the sentence and would take part in the presidential race regardless.
‘We don't recognise this ruling. I have every right to take part in the election according to the constitution and I will do so,' said Navalny.