In response to the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, the United Kingdom government has summoned the Russian Embassy to express that they hold the Russian authorities fully responsible for his demise. A spokesperson from the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO) extended support to Navalny’s family, friends, colleagues, and supporters, highlighting his dedication to exposing corruption within the Russian system.
The spokesperson also underscored Navalny’s perceived threat to the Russian authorities, emphasizing his imprisonment on fabricated charges, poisoning with a banned nerve agent, and subsequent confinement in an Arctic penal colony.
Investigation and Transparency
Amid doubts surrounding Navalny’s death, the FCDO called for a full and transparent investigation, condemning the brutal nature of the Russian system and asserting Navalny’s commitment to human rights and anti-corruption efforts.
International Response and Mourning Navalny’s Death
World leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and US President Joe Biden, expressed outrage and condemnation over Navalny’s reported death, holding Russian President Vladimir Putin accountable.
President Macron paid tribute to Navalny’s dedication and courage, highlighting the repression of free spirits in today’s Russia, while President Biden blamed Putin for Navalny’s demise. European Union President Ursula von der Leyen mourned Navalny’s death, suggesting that Putin fears dissent from his people more than anything else, reflecting on Navalny’s enduring legacy and the ongoing struggle for freedom in Russia.
(With ANI Inputs)