Tucker Carlson has addressed criticism regarding his interview with Russian President Vladimir Putin by asserting that strong "leadership requires killing people."

The ex-Fox News host had a conversation with the leader of Russia on February 6. However, the interview has received criticism for being "soft," with even Vladimir Putin expressing his disappointment with Carlson's line of questioning.

Tucker Carlson Says Leadership Requires 'Killing People'

In the days leading up to the announcement of the passing of Russian opposition leader Aleksey Navalny, Carlson stood by his interview. Making an appearance at the World Government Summit in Dubai on Monday, February 12, he also engaged in an interview with Egyptian journalist Emad El Din Adeeb.

During the interview Adeeb said, "You didn't talk about freedom of speech in Russia, you did not talk about Alexei Navalny, about assassinations, about restrictions on opposition in the coming elections."

However, Carlson answered, "Every leader kills people, some kill more than others. Leadership requires killing people, sorry, that's why I wouldn't want to be a leader."

In yet another peculiar video, Carlson expressed admiration for Russia's affordable grocery store prices and high-quality produce. The journalist explored a Russian superstore, expressing fascination with the wide range of products during his ongoing tour focused on Putin.

In a video shared on his social media accounts, Carlson, 54, expressed his excitement by exclaiming, "Look at that!" as he sniffed a loaf of bread, accompanied by cheerful music.

The ex-host expressed his shift in emotions, going from amusement to genuine anger, upon discovering that his home country seemingly imposes higher prices for essential items such as food. The video received widespread criticism from online users, who highlighted the significant difference between the average wage in Russia - which amounts to $9,072 - and the average salary in the US, which is $59,428.

During his interview with Putin, Carlson expressed admiration for Russia, describing Moscow as a city that he found particularly pleasant. However, following the news of the passing of Russian opposition leader Navalny in a Russian prison, Carlson's stance towards Putin has grown increasingly critical.

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Carlson Turns on Putin for Alexei Navalny's 'Barbaric' Death

In an interview with DailyMail.com, the ex-Fox News host revealed that he was aboard a plane en route from Dubai when news of Navalny's passing broke. Carlson expressed deep concern over the incident involving Navalny, describing it as truly horrifying.

"The entire situation is inhumane and horrific. It is indefensible, according to most people," Carlson claimed.

News of Navalny's reported death spread rapidly on Friday morning, originating from Russian news outlets. The announcement came from the Siberian prison service, where Navalny was serving a lengthy sentence for "extremism." The news has provoked strong reactions worldwide, with many expressing anger and outrage.

A statement from prison officials reported that on February 16, 2024, convict Navalny A.A. experienced a sudden deterioration in health after a walk, resulting in a loss of consciousness. Global leaders, including the Latvian president, have held Putin responsible for Navalny's death.

Carlson received significant criticism after his interview with Putin was deemed too lenient, particularly in light of the announcement of Alexei Navalny's death. A former co-host of 'The View' Meghan McCain pointed out that there was a lack of concern for Navalny's life when Tucker Carlson was questioned about him recently.

According to Stuart Stevens, a former Republican strategist, there is a sentiment among Trump supporters that looks at Russia and wonders why America can't be more like it, as highlighted by Tucker Carlson.

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