Spicer: The U.S. ‘Strongly Condemns’ the Detention of Hundreds of Protesters in Russia

EXCERPT:

SPICER: "The statement that the State Department put out says, 'The United States strongly condemns the detention of hundreds of peaceful protesters throughout Russia on Sunday. The detention of peaceful protesters, human rights observers and journalists is an affront to essential Democratic values. We are trouble to hear of the arrest of the opposition leader upon arrival at the demonstration, as well as the police raid of the anti-corruption organization he heads. The United States will monitor the situation and we call on the government of 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 rights without fear of retribution.'"