Vladimir Kramnik

14th World Champion

“I want to once again express my condolences to the family and loved ones of Daniel Naroditsky. The loss of such a young and prominent chess player is a huge tragedy not only for them, but for the entire chess community.

I am deeply disappointed that such a tragedy was used by various individuals and groups to settle personal scores.

There can be no justification for such immoral conduct.

I will remind you that after viewing fragments of his last stream, despite our past disagreements, I publicly called on Daniel’s friends — on that very morning, which turned out to be the morning of his death — to check on him and seek urgent help. Unfortunately, my efforts were in vain.

Out of respect for Daniel’s memory and his loved ones, I will refrain from any further public comments on this matter at this time.”