An investigation has begun into the shooting of a US expert on Russian intelligence, days after he alleged that the Russian government was involved in the death of Alexander Litvinenko.
Paul Joyal, 53, was shot several times as he returned to his home in the suburbs of Washington DC. He remains in a critical condition.
Four days earlier Mr Joyal had given an interview on a US TV network in which he claimed that Russian President Vladimir Putin was involved in the radiation poisoning of Mr Litvinenko.
He told NBC's Dateline programme that 'a message had been sent out' to anyone who dared speak out against the Kremlin.
It is understood that Mr Joyal's briefcase and wallet were stolen during what appeared to be a random robbery. However the FBI is now investigating due to the timing of the attack.
Alexander Litvinenko died in a London hospital on 23 November and was found to have high levels of the radioactive isotope polonium 210 in his body.
He and his associates have accused Russia of carrying out the poisoning because of his fierce opposition to President Putin.
