RUSSIA: In a tragic turn of events, Kira Yarmysh, the spokeswoman for Alexei Navalny, confirmed on Saturday that the prominent Russian opposition figure died. The confirmation came after Navalny's mother, Lyudmila, received an official notice regarding his demise.
Navalny, aged 47 and a former lawyer, reportedly fell unconscious and subsequently died on Friday following a stroll at the "Polar Wolf" Arctic penal colony in Kharp, located approximately 1,900 kilometers (1,200 miles) northeast of Moscow. This compound was where Navalny was serving a substantial three-decade sentence, as announced by authorities.
Yarmysh expressed a pressing demand for Navalny's body to be promptly handed over to his family. "We demand that Alexei Navalny's body be given to his family immediately," she asserted.
Taking to X, formerly recognized as Twitter, Yarmysh disclosed that Navalny's passing occurred at 2:17 p.m. local time (0917 GMT), as per the notification relayed to his mother. She further revealed that Russian investigators had transported his body to Salekhard, the town neighboring the prison facility, for what was described as "research" purposes.
The news of Navalny's death sent shockwaves through Russia and the international community, sparking widespread mourning and condemnation. Navalny was a prominent critic of the Russian government and had gained significant popularity for his anti-corruption campaigns and calls for political reform.
Navalny's supporters and human rights organizations have raised concerns about the circumstances surrounding his death, with many alleging foul play by the Russian authorities. The Kremlin has denied any involvement in Navalny's demise, maintaining that he died of natural causes.
Meanwhile, world leaders have called for a transparent investigation into Navalny's death, urging the Russian government to provide answers and accountability. The European Union, United States, and other countries have expressed solidarity with Navalny's family and supporters, vowing to hold those responsible for his death accountable.
As the world waits for more information on Navalny's passing, his legacy as a fearless advocate for democracy and human rights continues to inspire millions around the globe.
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