Telephone recordings of Nemtsov in which he disparages other opposition figures were published last month by pro-Kremlin tabloid Life News, apparently in an attempt to cause dissension among the opposition ahead of a major rally.
Nemtsov, one of the leaders of unregistered liberal party Parnas, said at the time that the News of the World-style leaks were illegal and that he would sue Life News over their publication.
On Tuesday, Nemtsov told Interfax that an investigator had called him and said a case had been opened in connection with the illegal tapping and publication of telephone conversations.
A Message from The Moscow Times:
Dear readers,
We are facing unprecedented challenges. Russia's Prosecutor General's Office has designated The Moscow Times as an "undesirable" organization, criminalizing our work and putting our staff at risk of prosecution. This follows our earlier unjust labeling as a "foreign agent."
These actions are direct attempts to silence independent journalism in Russia. The authorities claim our work "discredits the decisions of the Russian leadership." We see things differently: we strive to provide accurate, unbiased reporting on Russia.
We, the journalists of The Moscow Times, refuse to be silenced. But to continue our work, we need your help.
Your support, no matter how small, makes a world of difference. If you can, please support us monthly starting from just $2. It's quick to set up, and every contribution makes a significant impact.
By supporting The Moscow Times, you're defending open, independent journalism in the face of repression. Thank you for standing with us.
Remind me later.
