MEPs Call on Moscow to Hold Independent Probe of Nemtsov Killing

Members of the European Parliament on Wednesday called on Russia to conduct an independent investigation into the killing of opposition politician Boris Nemtsov.

According to EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini, opposition parties in Russia "struggle to exist and to have access to mainstream media."

Pressure is increasing on the freedom of expression, Mogherini told MEPs who were were meeting for the first time since Nemtsov was killed near the walls of the Kremlin two weeks ago.

"Russian authorities have not only the duty to conduct a full and transparent investigation into the murder of Boris, they also have to put an end to the climate of suspicion, hatred and intolerance for diversity of opinion," she said, according to Reuters.

Russian opposition activists have already questioned authorities' handling of the investigation, pointing out how swiftly Russian authorities detained suspects.

Zaur Dadayev and Anzor Gubashev have been formally charged on Sunday with killing Nemtsov. Three other men, including Gubashev's brother Shagid, are being held in connection with the case but no charges have been brought against them.

Dadayev, who is the main suspect, has denied a role in the murder and said he confessed under duress.