Alexei Navalny | Business Upturn

U.S. and EU impose sanctions on Russia over Ukraine invasion and Navalny’s death

Aishi Saha — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 15:39:17 +0000

The United States has implemented a fresh wave of sanctions against Russia, exceeding 500 in number, in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the recent death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny. These sanctions target various sectors, including Russia’s main card payment system, financial and military institutions, and individuals involved in Navalny’s imprisonment. Additionally, the EU has imposed new sanctions, particularly on access to military technology, further tightening the economic pressure on Russia. These measures come amidst heightened tensions following Navalny’s sudden death in a jail located in the Arctic Circle.

U.S. President Joe Biden, who recently met Navalny’s widow and daughter in San Francisco, has squarely placed blame on Russian President Vladimir Putin for Navalny’s demise. However, the effectiveness of these sanctions in impacting Russia’s economy remains uncertain. The latest U.S. sanctions encompass nearly 100 firms and individuals, subjecting them to export restrictions. Moreover, entities linked to Russia’s war efforts, energy production, and cooperation with Iran face targeted sanctions.

The objective behind these measures, as stated by President Biden, is to ensure that Putin faces severe consequences for his aggressive actions abroad and repressive measures at home. This latest round of sanctions coincides with the second anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Biden emphasized the need to hold Putin accountable for his actions, warning that failure to do so could embolden further aggression.

Meanwhile, the EU has also intensified its sanctions regime, targeting nearly 200 companies and individuals accused of facilitating Russia’s procurement of weapons and involvement in the kidnapping of Ukrainian children. The EU’s actions underscore its commitment to curbing Russia’s war efforts and supporting Ukraine’s legitimate right to self-defence.

In response to these measures, Russia has expanded its own list of banned EU officials and politicians, dismissing the EU’s sanctions as futile attempts to pressure Russia. Despite the escalating sanctions, the conflict between Russia and Ukraine persists, posing ongoing challenges to regional stability and global security. As diplomatic efforts continue to address the crisis, the impact of sanctions on Russia’s behaviour and the resolution of the conflict remains uncertain.

Putin’s flight on nuclear capable bomber signals Russia’s military strength

Aishi Saha — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 17:07:40 +0000

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent flight on a modernised Tu-160M nuclear-capable strategic bomber serves as a stark reminder of Moscow’s nuclear prowess and comes at a time of heightened tensions with the West. The Tu-160M, codenamed “Blackjacks” by NATO, represents a modernised iteration of a Cold War-era bomber, originally designed for long-distance nuclear strikes.

During the flight, which took place in Kazan, Putin expressed confidence in the reliability and modernity of the aircraft, emphasising its significance for the Russian Air Force. State TV coverage captured Putin disembarking from the plane, highlighting its advanced features and capabilities.

The timing of Putin’s flight is significant, occurring amidst strained relations between Russia and Western powers, particularly in the aftermath of Russia’s actions in Ukraine and the death of opposition figure Alexei Navalny. The flight is viewed by many as a deliberate display of Russia’s military capabilities and a message to the West.

Notably, some diplomats have remarked that current tensions between Russia and the United States are unparalleled, drawing comparisons to the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962. Against this backdrop, Putin’s flight on the Tu-160M serves as a potent symbol of Russia’s military might.

The Tu-160M, also known as the “White Swans” in Russia, is equipped with advanced weaponry and has the capacity to carry a significant payload, including cruise missiles and short-range nuclear weapons. Its extensive range of 12,000 km without refuelling underscores its strategic importance in Russia’s defence doctrine.

While former President Dmitry Medvedev has cautioned against the risk of nuclear conflict with the West, Putin has maintained that Russia’s statehood is not under immediate threat. However, the display of Russia’s military capabilities through actions like the Tu-160M flight underscores the country’s commitment to defending its interests and asserting its influence on the global stage.

Underlining Russia’s investment in modernising its military arsenal, the contract for 10 modernised Tu-160M bombers reflects the country’s ongoing efforts to enhance its strategic capabilities. With each aircraft costing approximately 15 billion roubles, Russia’s commitment to bolstering its military strength is evident.

Overall, Putin’s flight on the Tu-160M bomber serves as a potent symbol of Russia’s military prowess and underscores the complex dynamics at play in the ongoing geopolitical tensions between Russia and the West.

UK imposes extensive sanctions on Russia

Aishi Saha — Thu, 22 Feb 2024 16:31:32 +0000

In a significant move aimed at curbing Russian aggression, the United Kingdom has announced a comprehensive set of sanctions targeting over 50 individuals and entities associated with the Russian government. This action comes just days before the anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, demonstrating the UK’s commitment to diminishing President Vladimir Putin’s weapons arsenal and financial resources.

Foreign Secretary David Cameron emphasized the impact of international economic pressure on Russia, stating that these sanctions aim to deprive Putin of the resources needed to sustain his military campaign. The measures specifically target companies linked to the Russian ammunition industry, including major entities like the Sverdlov State Owned Enterprise. Additionally, revenue sources in key sectors such as metals, diamonds, and energy are being addressed to further restrict Russian economic capabilities.

Among those targeted are Russian importers and manufacturers of machine tools essential for the production of defence systems, ranging from missiles to fighter jets. By sanctioning these entities, the UK aims to disrupt Russia’s military supply chain and hinder its ability to procure advanced weaponry.

The UK’s actions align with a broader Western effort to impose sanctions on Russia, with the European Union recently approving a package of measures targeting nearly 200 entities and individuals involved in supporting Moscow’s military activities or human rights violations, including the kidnapping of Ukrainian children.

Earlier this week, the UK also imposed sanctions on six individuals responsible for overseeing the Arctic penal colony where Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny tragically lost his life. These measures underscore the UK’s commitment to holding Russia accountable for its actions and standing in solidarity with Ukraine and other affected nations.

As tensions between Russia and the West continue to escalate, diplomatic efforts are ongoing to de-escalate the situation and seek a peaceful resolution. However, the imposition of sanctions represents a clear message from the UK and its allies that aggression and violations of international norms will not be tolerated.

The UK’s decisive action against Russia underscores its role as a key player in the international community’s response to ongoing geopolitical challenges. With these sanctions, the UK reaffirms its commitment to upholding global security and stability in the face of aggression and destabilizing actions by hostile regimes.

Operation Texonto exposes broader cybersecurity concerns in Ukraine conflict

Eesha Chakraborty — Wed, 21 Feb 2024 16:48:36 +0000

A disturbing campaign of disinformation and psychological manipulation has emerged, targeting Ukrainian citizens to erode their morale and stoke anxieties. Dubbed “Operation Texonto” by cybersecurity firm ESET, this Russia-aligned effort leverages a potent mix of fabricated narratives and manipulative tactics to sow discord and doubt within Ukrainian society. The campaign operates across multiple waves designed to exploit specific vulnerabilities and anxieties.

In the initial phase, emails masquerading as official communications from Ukrainian government agencies spread misinformation about impending shortages of food, medicine, and heating. These fabricated warnings, complete with forged logos and seemingly credible sources, aim to create panic and distrust toward the Ukrainian government’s ability to provide essential resources.

Beyond essential supplies, the campaign delves into even more disturbing territory. One email template, targeting potential conscripts, suggests self-harm as a means to avoid military service, advocating for the amputation of limbs to escape deployment. This tactic, exploiting the fear of war and the potential for forced conscription, represents a deeply cynical attempt to exploit individual anxieties for broader strategic goals.

The campaign’s reach extends beyond Ukraine’s borders. Emails targeting an Italian shoe manufacturer suggest a broader attempt to sow discord and manipulate public opinion internationally. Additionally, emails referencing jailed Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny hint at potential efforts to target his supporters and further fracture the Russian political landscape.

Operation Texonto’s activities extend beyond mere disinformation. The same infrastructure used for the propaganda campaign was later repurposed to distribute spam emails promoting fake Canadian pharmacies. This shift suggests a potential attempt to monetize the campaign’s infrastructure, highlighting the opportunistic nature of the operation and its potential financial motivations.

ESET’s findings reveal a concerning development in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. This campaign underscores the increasingly sophisticated use of information warfare as a tool to undermine morale, sow discord, and manipulate public opinion.

EU vows accountability for Navalny’s death, stands with Yulia against Putin

Aishi Saha — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 16:21:12 +0000

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell has pledged to hold Russian President Vladimir Putin accountable for the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Borrell made the commitment after meeting with Navalny’s widow, Yulia Navalnaya, who has vowed to continue her husband’s fight against Putin’s authoritarian rule.

In a statement, Borrell expressed the EU’s deepest condolences to Yulia Navalnaya and affirmed that Putin and his regime would face consequences for Navalny’s death. He emphasised that Putin does not represent all of Russia, pledging continued support for Russian civil society and independent media.

Yulia Navalnaya addressed EU foreign ministers in Brussels, reiterating her determination to challenge Putin’s grip on power. She urged the EU to take stronger action against Putin’s inner circle, receiving a standing ovation for her resolve. Navalnaya cautioned against making deals with Putin or expecting him to change.

European diplomats revealed that discussions among EU ministers included options for imposing additional sanctions on the Kremlin following Navalny’s death. While the EU has already implemented significant sanctions against Russia over its invasion of Ukraine, Borrell indicated that member states would propose new sanctions targeting those directly responsible for Navalny’s mistreatment, particularly within Russia’s prison system.

As a symbolic gesture, Borrell announced that the EU would rename its global human rights sanctions blacklist after Navalny. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock confirmed plans to initiate further sanctions measures in response to Navalny’s death, condemning Russia’s aggression against Ukraine as an assault on freedom.

Ministers from various EU countries echoed support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression, citing Navalny’s death as a stark reminder of the Kremlin’s threat to democracy. Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna labelled Putin a murderer and stressed the importance of supporting Ukraine’s fight for freedom.

Belgian minister Hadja Lahbib warned of the broader implications of Navalny’s death, highlighting the danger of allowing Russia to expand its influence unchecked. She emphasised the need for the EU to recognise the threat posed by Putin’s regime and to stand firmly in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty.

As EU leaders reaffirm their commitment to holding Putin’s regime accountable, Navalny’s death continues to reverberate as a catalyst for action against Russian aggression and in solidarity with those fighting for democracy.

Trump acknowledges Navalny’s death post criticism from Haley

Aishi Saha — Mon, 19 Feb 2024 16:08:33 +0000

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has broken his silence on the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, following criticism from former United Nations Ambassador Nikki Haley. Navalny’s sudden death has sparked international outcry, with many holding Russian President Vladimir Putin responsible.

Trump’s statement came via his social media platform, Truth Social, where he expressed awareness of Navalny’s death and its implications for the country. However, the former POTUS intertwined Navalny’s fate with his own political narrative, highlighting what he perceives as a decline in America’s values and systems.

In his message, Trump lamented what he sees as a gradual descent facilitated by “crooked” left-wing politicians, prosecutors, and judges. He cited issues such as open borders, allegations of election rigging, and perceived injustices within the courtroom as contributing factors to what he describes as America’s decline. Trump’s message concluded with a rallying call to “Make America Great Again” (MAGA), hinting at a potential political comeback in 2024.

The timing of Trump’s statement follows sharp criticism from Nikki Haley, who appeared on Fox & Friends to voice her concerns about Trump’s silence regarding Navalny’s death. Haley questioned Trump’s reluctance to address Putin’s alleged involvement in Navalny’s demise, accusing him of being “weak in the knees” when it comes to the Russian leader. She also highlighted Trump’s failure to advocate for the seizure of Russian assets, which could benefit Ukraine, and his focus on personal grievances rather than critical global issues.

Navalny’s death has reignited debates about the state of democracy in Russia and the role of world leaders in holding authoritarian regimes to account. While Trump’s belated response may signal a shift in his stance towards Putin’s regime, critics argue that it falls short of providing meaningful condemnation or tangible action.

As the international community continues to monitor developments surrounding Navalny’s death and Russia’s response, the spotlight remains on political leaders to uphold democratic values and defend human rights on the global stage.

Trump’s delayed acknowledgment of Navalny’s death, prompted by criticism from Nikki Haley, underscores the complexities of U.S.-Russian relations and the challenges of addressing human rights abuses within authoritarian regimes.

Global outcry over Navalny’s suspicious death in Russian jail

Aishi Saha — Sun, 18 Feb 2024 09:00:26 +0000

The death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny in an Arctic jail has prompted widespread condemnation and accusations of foul play. Navalny’s mother, Lyudmila, has been unable to retrieve his body, as Russian authorities insist on conducting a post-mortem examination before releasing it. His team alleges that Navalny was murdered on the orders of President Vladimir Putin, sparking international outrage.

Navalny’s outspoken criticism of Putin’s regime made him a prominent figure in Russian opposition politics. Serving a lengthy prison sentence in a remote penal colony, Navalny’s sudden demise has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding his death. Despite calls for transparency, Putin has remained silent on the matter, further fueling speculation and suspicion.

The Western governments, including the G7, have condemned Russia for Navalny’s death and urged for clarity on the situation. The lack of accountability from Russian authorities has only intensified scrutiny from the international community. Navalny’s demise has reignited concerns over human rights violations in Russia and highlighted the challenges faced by the opposition movement.

In response to Navalny’s death, protests have erupted across Russia, resulting in over 400 arrests. Navalny’s allies accuse Russian authorities of withholding his body to conceal evidence of foul play. The deliberate delay in releasing his body has only added to the growing distrust towards the Russian government.

Internationally, leaders have joined in the condemnation of Navalny’s death, observing a minute’s silence at the Munich Security Conference. They have pledged to take action against those responsible for his untimely demise. Navalny’s death serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by political dissidents in Russia and the need for greater accountability and transparency within the government.

The circumstances surrounding Navalny’s death have sparked outrage and calls for justice from around the world. The international community is closely monitoring developments in Russia and urging for a thorough investigation into Navalny’s demise. As the investigation unfolds, the spotlight remains firmly on Putin’s government, with many demanding answers and accountability for Navalny’s death.

Moscow mourns Navalny’s death

Aishi Saha — Sun, 18 Feb 2024 08:12:29 +0000

In the wake of Alexei Navalny’s tragic passing, mourners in Moscow find themselves grappling with despair and political turmoil. The solemn tributes that adorned the city in honour of Russia’s prominent opposition leader were swiftly removed overnight, as officials moved to erase the visible expressions of grief.

According to Russia’s prison service, Navalny, aged 47, was reported to have fallen unconscious and subsequently died after a walk at the “Polar Wolf” Arctic penal colony. His death has sparked widespread sorrow among those who had admired his courage and commitment to truth-telling.

Despite the authorities’ efforts to erase the physical manifestations of mourning, a few remnants of remembrance persisted, with flowers and messages adorning monuments and memorials across the city. At the monument to the victims of Soviet repression and the “Wall of Sorrow” memorial, individuals laid flowers and left heartfelt messages expressing their grief and determination to remember Navalny’s legacy.

However, amidst the mourning, there looms a cloud of political discord. Western leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden, have pointed fingers at President Vladimir Putin, holding him responsible for Navalny’s demise. In response, the Kremlin has condemned these accusations, dismissing them as unfounded and inflammatory.

Navalny’s death not only marks a significant loss for the Russian opposition but also raises questions about the future of dissent and democracy in the country. With Navalny’s charismatic leadership now absent, the opposition finds itself at a crossroads, navigating the path forward in the face of continued repression and crackdowns.

Moreover, Navalny’s passing has reignited debates about Russia’s political landscape and Putin’s grip on power. While some mourners view Navalny as a martyr and symbol of hope for change, others dismiss him as a polarizing figure, highlighting the stark divisions within Russian society.

As Moscow grapples with the aftermath of Navalny’s death, the political ramifications ripple beyond the city’s borders. International condemnation and domestic unrest underscore the challenges facing Russia’s leadership and its relations with the West.

In the midst of mourning and political upheaval, the legacy of Alexei Navalny endures, serving as a rallying cry for those who continue to advocate for justice, transparency, and democracy in Russia. Yet, as the nation mourns his loss, the road ahead remains uncertain, fraught with challenges and uncertainties.

Navalny’s team confirms Putin critic’s death; His mother searches for his Body

Jennifer Philip — Sat, 17 Feb 2024 14:20:12 +0000

Alexei Navalny’s spokesperson confirmed his death at a distant Arctic penal colony, alleging murder, but his body’s whereabouts remain unknown. An official document provided to Navalny’s mother stated his time of death, with reports suggesting his body was taken to Salekhard for investigation. His family demands his body’s release.

Navalny’s legal team reported that when a lawyer and his mother visited the Salekhard morgue, it was closed. Upon contacting the morgue, they were informed that Navalny’s body was not there. Another lawyer was told by Salekhard’s Investigative Committee that the cause of Navalny’s death has yet to be determined, with further investigations ongoing and results expected next week, according to Yarmysh. She demanded Navalny’s immediate release to his family. The cause and circumstances of Navalny’s death on Friday remain ambiguous.

Russia’s Federal Penitentiary Service stated that Navalny fell ill and lost consciousness at the penal colony in Kharp, located approximately 1,200 miles northeast of Moscow. Medical personnel attempted to revive him, but their efforts were unsuccessful. The cause of death is still being investigated. Maria Pevchikh, head of Navalny’s Anti-Corruption Foundation, remarked that Navalny’s legacy will endure in the hearts of millions.

“Navalny was murdered. We still don’t know how we’ll keep on living, but together, we’ll think of something,” she wrote on X.

Following the detention of over 100 individuals in various Russian cities on Friday for laying flowers at memorials honoring Navalny and victims of Soviet-era purges, arrests persisted on Saturday, as reported by OVD-Info, a group monitoring political repression. Although tributes were removed overnight, individuals continued to arrive with flowers. In Moscow, police forcefully removed a woman from the crowd amidst chants of “shame,” as depicted in videos circulating on social media. Over 10 people, including a priest conducting a service for Navalny in St. Petersburg, were detained at a memorial there.

In various cities nationwide, police set up cordons around some memorials, photographing and recording personal data of attendees, an evident attempt at intimidation. Navalny had been imprisoned since January 2021, following his return to Moscow from Germany, where he had been recovering from nerve agent poisoning he attributed to the Kremlin. He faced multiple politically motivated convictions and was sentenced to 19 years for extremism.

Following the latest verdict, Navalny acknowledged that he was effectively serving a life sentence, contingent upon the duration of his life or the regime’s tenure.

Navalny’s death, occurring just before an election granting President Putin another six years in office, underscores a grim reality: opposition in Russia now carries the risk of not just imprisonment, but death, according to Nigel Gould-Davies, a former British ambassador to Belarus and a senior fellow specializing in Russia and Eurasia at the International Institute for Strategic Studies in London.

The Kremlin reacted strongly to the global condemnation, with Putin’s spokesperson Dmitry Peskov describing it as “unacceptable and outrageous,” emphasizing that medical professionals have yet to determine the cause of Navalny’s death.

Zelenskiy calls on allies to address ‘artificial’ weapons shortage to counter Putin

Jennifer Philip — Sat, 17 Feb 2024 11:36:49 +0000

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskiy stated on Saturday that his country’s inability to access weapons was bolstering Russian President Vladimir Putin. He mentioned during a speech at the Munich Security Conference that the absence of artillery and long-range capabilities in Ukraine’s arsenal allows Putin to adjust to the ongoing intensity of the conflict.

At a crucial moment during Russia’s extensive invasion of Ukraine, which has persisted for nearly three years, President Zelenskiy addressed the situation. His troops had been compelled to retreat from the heavily damaged eastern town of Avdiivka. Ukraine was experiencing severe ammunition shortages, and the approval of U.S. military assistance had stalled in Congress for several months.

Zelenskiy lamented the situation, expressing regret that Ukraine’s artificial scarcity of weaponry, particularly in terms of artillery and long-range capabilities, was allowing Putin to adjust to the current intensity of the conflict. He emphasized that this weakening of democracy over time undermines the collective determination of their efforts.

He further emphasized not to inquire about Ukraine’s expectations for the war’s conclusion, but rather to reflect on why Putin still possesses the capacity to prolong it. He stressed that the crucial action allies could take at present was to dispatch additional shipments of weaponry and air defenses to Ukraine. During the same conference, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz avoided addressing inquiries regarding providing long-range Taurus missiles to Kyiv. Zelenskiy pointed out that if Ukraine’s artillery range is 20 km while Russia’s extends to 40 km, it provides a clear explanation.

The Munich Security Conference received shocking news on Friday regarding the death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny while in a Russian prison. Zelenskiy remarked that following Navalny’s death, it was inconceivable to view Putin as the rightful leader of Russia.

Russian authorities report death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny

Jennifer Philip — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 13:45:48 +0000

Renowned Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny died on Friday after collapsing and losing consciousness at the penal colony north of the Arctic Circle where he was serving a long jail term, as reported by the Russian prison service. Navalny, aged 47, gained widespread recognition over ten years ago for satirizing President Vladimir Putin and the Russian ruling class, whom he frequently criticized for extensive corruption, greed, and luxurious lifestyles.

According to a statement released on Friday and reported by state media, the federal prison service stated that Navalny “felt unwell” following a walk and quickly lost consciousness. The statement continued, indicating that medical personnel responded promptly, and an ambulance was summoned. Despite resuscitation efforts, Navalny’s condition did not improve. Paramedics later confirmed his passing. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of death.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov announced that President Putin has been informed of Navalny’s demise. Putin, who is currently campaigning for reelection in a month, was depicted in a televised segment visiting a factory in the Urals region. Although supporters of Navalny expressed uncertainty about his death, they asserted that if confirmed, they suspect foul play in his demise.

Navalny’s attorney was en route to the “Polar Wolf” prison in Kharp, where Navalny passed away. State-run Russian television aired a press briefing held by the central bank. Dmitry Muratov, editor of a Russian newspaper and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, stated to Reuters on Friday that he considers the death of imprisoned opposition figure Alexei Navalny to be an act of “murder.” Muratov expressed his belief that Navalny’s harsh treatment while incarcerated ultimately resulted in his death.

Navalny garnered respect from various factions of Russia’s opposition for his decision to return to Russia in 2021 after receiving medical treatment in Germany. Western laboratory tests indicated that he had been targeted with a nerve agent, which he claimed occurred during a poisoning incident in Siberia in August 2020. Despite Navalny’s allegations, the Kremlin refuted any involvement in an assassination attempt and dismissed the notion of evidence suggesting the use of a nerve agent in his poisoning.

Navalny, a vocal adversary of Putin, has been detained since January 2021 following his return to Moscow from Germany, where he received treatment for nerve agent poisoning which he attributed to the Kremlin.
Before his arrest, he spearheaded initiatives targeting corruption and orchestrated significant anti-Kremlin demonstrations. Convicted on charges of extremism, his initial sentence was later extended to 19 years in 2023.

Putin’s critic Alexei Navalny jailed for three and a half years for violating probation terms

Ruchira Sonawat — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 18:37:42 +0000

A Moscow court granted a prosecutor’s request for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s critic Alexei Navalny to be jailed for three-and-a-half years for violating the conditions of a suspended sentence.

Judge Natalya Repnikova ordered a suspension on Tuesday. The Yale-educated 44-year-old lawyer is banned from state television and was blocked from challenging Putin in the 2018 presidential election, but he has still managed to be a persistent thorn in the authorities’ side.

He has been in detention since returning to Russia last month. He had been treated in Germany for a near-fatal nerve agent attack against him in August. In court he called President Vladimir Putin a “poisoner”, blaming him for the attack.

Thousands of supporters have rallied across Russia in support of Mr Navalny. His suspended sentence for embezzlement has been converted into a jail term. He has already served a year under house arrest which will be deducted from the total.

His supporters called for an immediate protest and tried to gather outside court but the whole area was overrun with riot police. More than 300 have been detained.

Strong international reaction to the sentence came quickly, with the Council of Europe saying the judgement “defied all credibility”. UK Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab described the ruling as “perverse”, and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said he was deeply concerned by it.

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny poisoned with Soviet-era nerve agent: Germany

News Desk — Wed, 02 Sep 2020 07:41:22 +0000

Citing new test results, Germany said Wednesday that Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who is being treated in a Berlin hospital, was poisoned with a Novichok, a chemical nerve agent.

Toxicology tests carried out by the German army on Navalny (44) have provided “unequivocal evidence of a chemical nerve agent from the Novichok family,” German government spokesman Steffen Seibert said.

Navalny, one of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s fiercest critics, fell ill after boarding a plane in Siberia last month. He was initially treated in a local hospital before being flown to Germany for medical treatment.

Navalny’s allies have insisted he was deliberately poisoned by the Russian authorities.

It should be mentioned here that the nerve agent Novichok is a military-grade poison that was developed by the Soviet government towards the end of the Cold War.

Flight carrying Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny lands in Berlin

News Desk — Sat, 22 Aug 2020 01:49:25 +0000

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, who has been in a coma since Thursday, arrived in Germany for medical treatment after his ‘suspected’ poisoning, according to his spokeswoman.

The anti-corruption campaigner will be treated at the Charite hospital in Berlin.

“Mr Navalny is in a stable condition after arriving in Berlin by air ambulance,” the German NGO that chartered the flight told AFP.

After two days, Russian authorities gave permission for his transportation abroad after Navalny’s family members, as well as international leaders, appealed directly to President Putin.

Russia’s opposition leader Alexei Navalny in coma after alleged poisoning

Ashutosh Jadia — Thu, 20 Aug 2020 11:56:20 +0000

Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny was in a coma in a Siberian hospital on Thursday i.e. 20th August after drinking a cup of tea that his spokeswoman said she believed was containing poison.

Spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh said on social media that, Navalny, 44, was in intensive care and on an artificial lung ventilator.

Yarmysh said, “We assume that Alexei was poisoned with something mixed into his tea. It was the only thing that he drank in the morning. Doctors say the toxin was absorbed faster through the hot liquid. Alexei is now unconscious.”

“We confirm that Alexei Navalny has been hospitalised in Omsk and that doctors assess his condition as serious…Doctors are doing everything possible to stabilise his condition,” said Tatyana Shakirova, a spokeswoman for the regional health ministry in Omsk.

Alexei Navalny: Russia opposition leader hospitalized after suspected tea poisoning

News Desk — Thu, 20 Aug 2020 05:09:28 +0000

Russian most prominent opposition figure Alexei Navalny is unconscious after suffering from suspected poisoning and reportedly on a ventilator in the hospital’s intensive care unit.

In a series of tweets, Navalny’s press secretary Kira Yarmysh described how the opposition politician, who is also a staunch critic of the Kremlin, fell seriously ill around 30 minutes after takeoff from the city of Tomsk.

Ms Kira claimed the anti-corruption campaigner must have consumed something from tea he drank earlier in the morning.

In 2017, Mr Navalny also suffered a serious chemical burn after he was attacked with antiseptic dye.

Last year, his foundation was officially declared a “foreign agent”, enabling the government to subject it to more restrictions.