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Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Friday.
Peskov said that although Russians “respect” the queen “for her wisdom,” Putin’s attendance at the funeral is not an option.
The spokesman added that a decision will be taken soon on who will represent Russia at the ceremony.
On Thursday, Putin was one of the world leaders to offer his condolences to the royal family and wish King Charles III “courage and resilience.”
In a statement Thursday, the Russian president praised the queen, saying: “For many decades Elizabeth II rightfully enjoyed her subjects’ love and respect as well as authority on the world stage.”
The queen hosted Putin and his wife at Buckingham Palace in 2003.
The state funeral is expected to take place on September 19 at Westminster Abbey.
Source: Politico
