Under the vigilant watch of law enforcement, thousands gathered in Moscow on Friday (March 1) to bid their final farewells to Alexei Navalny, whose death two weeks back&nbsp;in an Arctic penal colony remains shrouded in mystery.

The funeral ceremony unfolded amidst a backdrop of contention between Navalny's supporters and authorities over the release of his body. Despite facing hurdles, including refusals from several Moscow churches to host the service for the prominent anti-corruption crusader, Navalny's team secured permission from the Church of the Icon of the Mother of God Soothe My Sorrows.

As Navalny's coffin was ushered into the church, the crowd erupted into applause and chants of support. Western diplomats, presidential hopefuls, and mourners from across the globe paid their respects. Inside the church, Navalny's body lay adorned with flowers, with his mother by his side, holding a candle.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/love-you-more-and-more-alexei-navalnys-last-message-for-his-wife-from-jail-691011">Also read |&nbsp;‘Love you more and more,’ Navalny’s last message for his wife Yulia. Who is she?</a>

<h2>Family dynamics and international attention</h2>

While Navalny's father was present, details regarding other family members remained unclear. His widow, Yulia Navalnaya, recently addressed the European Parliament, while his daughter studies&nbsp;at Stanford University and his son's whereabouts remain&nbsp;unknown. Close associates who left Russia under pressure observed the funeral remotely via Navalny's YouTube channel.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov cautioned against unauthorised gatherings, though sentiments among supporters echoed a deep respect for Navalny's activism. Despite legal admonitions, thousands marched to Borisovskoye Cemetery for the burial, where emotional scenes ensued, and demands to pay final respects echoed through the crowd.

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: What Happened to 'Putin Critic' Alexei Navalny?

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-what-happened-to-putin-critic-alexei-navalny-669051/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Navalny's mother's eight-day struggle to secure her son's body for burial highlighted bureaucratic hurdles and delays. Even on the day of the funeral, the morgue initially withheld the body, citing the need for further tests, prompting appeals from Navalny's allies for dignified closure.

Russian authorities have yet to determine Navalny's cause of death, fueling speculation and international outcry. His widow accused Putin and Moscow officials of obstructing a public funeral. Despite obstacles, Navalny's supporters worldwide were urged to honour him with floral tributes, underscoring his enduring legacy as a fearless advocate for justice.

(With inputs from agencies)

Under the vigilant watch of law enforcement, thousands gathered in Moscow on Friday (March 1) to bid their final farewells to Alexei Navalny, whose death two weeks back in an Arctic penal colony remains shrouded in mystery.

Under the vigilant watch of law enforcement, thousands gathered in Moscow on Friday (March 1) to bid their final farewells to Alexei Navalny, whose death two weeks back in an Arctic penal colony remains shrouded in mystery. The funeral ceremony unfolded amidst a backdrop of contention between Navalny's supporters and authorities over the release of his body. Despite facing hurdles, including refusals from several Moscow churches to host the service for the prominent anti-corruption crusader, Navalny's team secured permission from the Church of the Icon of the Mother of God Soothe My Sorrows. As Navalny's coffin was ushered into the church, the crowd erupted into applause and chants of support. Western diplomats, presidential hopefuls, and mourners from across the globe paid their respects. Inside the church, Navalny's body lay adorned with flowers, with his mother by his side, holding a candle. Also read | ‘Love you more and more,’ Navalny’s last message for his wife Yulia. Who is she? Family dynamics and international attention While Navalny's father was present, details regarding other family members remained unclear. His widow, Yulia Navalnaya, recently addressed the European Parliament, while his daughter studies at Stanford University and his son's whereabouts remain unknown. Close associates who left Russia under pressure observed the funeral remotely via Navalny's YouTube channel. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov cautioned against unauthorised gatherings, though sentiments among supporters echoed a deep respect for Navalny's activism. Despite legal admonitions, thousands marched to Borisovskoye Cemetery for the burial, where emotional scenes ensued, and demands to pay final respects echoed through the crowd. Also watch | Gravitas: What Happened to 'Putin Critic' Alexei Navalny? Navalny's mother's eight-day struggle to secure her son's body for burial highlighted bureaucratic hurdles and delays. Even on the day of the funeral, the morgue initially withheld the body, citing the need for further tests, prompting appeals from Navalny's allies for dignified closure. Russian authorities have yet to determine Navalny's cause of death, fueling speculation and international outcry. His widow accused Putin and Moscow officials of obstructing a public funeral. Despite obstacles, Navalny's supporters worldwide were urged to honour him with floral tributes, underscoring his enduring legacy as a fearless advocate for justice. (With inputs from agencies)

Alexei Navalny funeral: Putin's fierce critic buried in Moscow amid tight security

&nbsp;

Russian law enforcement, as reported by the Moscow Times, has arrested&nbsp;over 170 individuals at spontaneous memorials for Navalny held throughout the country. On Friday (Feb 16), Russian authorities issued warnings advising against participating in demonstrations.

Additionally, the British government announced its decision to summon the Russian embassy to convey its stance about&nbsp;Russian authorities being entirely responsible for the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

Expressing deep concern, the foreign ministry stressed on the necessity for a thorough and transparent investigation into Navalny's death at an Arctic penal colony,&nbsp;reported Reuters.

British Foreign Minister David Cameron asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin should be held accountable for Navalny's demise. While attending a security conference in Munich, Cameron also stressed on&nbsp;the need for consequences, highlighting Navalny's courageous fight against corruption and for democracy.

Both Cameron and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak paid tribute to Navalny, acknowledging his significant role as a staunch advocate for Russian democracy. Sunak praised Navalny as a fearless fighter for justice, underscoring the profound impact of his activism.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-ho-ho-ho-to-i-love-you-heres-how-putin-critic-alexei-navalny-described-his-last-days-in-arctic-prison-691111">Also read |&nbsp;'From Ho-ho-ho to I love you': Here's how Putin critic Alexei Navalny described his last days in Arctic prison</a>

<h2>Supporters offer tribute across US, Europe</h2>

Supporters of Navalny gathered across Europe and the United States on Friday (Feb 16) to honour the prominent opposition figure, who was widely recognised as Russia's leading dissident even during his imprisonment.

Navalny's death was confirmed on Friday by officials at the Arctic prison where he was serving a 19-year sentence.

From New York and Washington to various cities in Western Europe and capitals of former Soviet states, mourners paid tribute to Navalny, a charismatic lawyer who galvanised domestic opposition against Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Many attendees&nbsp;attributed Navalny's death to Putin, with chants of "Putin murderer! Putin to The Hague" echoing outside Russian&nbsp;embassy in Berlin, referencing the International Criminal Court.

In Warsaw, demonstrators gathered outside the Russian embassy, while in Switzerland, hundreds convened outside Zurich's railway station and in front of the United Nations in Geneva, carrying portraits of Navalny and white flowers.

Also watch |&nbsp;Biden: Putin and his thugs caused Navalny's death

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/biden-putin-and-his-thugs-caused-navalnys-death-691097/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In Moscow, small groups laid flowers at makeshift memorials, and similar scenes unfolded in cities like London, Vilnius, and New York, where people expressed grief and condemnation of Putin's regime.

Navalny, allegedly&nbsp;collapsed and died at the "Polar Wolf" penal colony where he was serving a lengthy prison sentence. The circumstances surrounding his death have sparked outrage and renewed calls for accountability within Russia and beyond.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian law enforcement, as reported by the Moscow Times, has arrested over 170 individuals at spontaneous memorials for Navalny held throughout the country. On Friday (Feb 16), Russian authorities issued warnings advising against participating in demonstrations.

Russian law enforcement, as reported by the Moscow Times, has arrested over 170 individuals at spontaneous memorials for Navalny held throughout the country. On Friday (Feb 16), Russian authorities issued warnings advising against participating in demonstrations. Additionally, the British government announced its decision to summon the Russian embassy to convey its stance about Russian authorities being entirely responsible for the death of opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Expressing deep concern, the foreign ministry stressed on the necessity for a thorough and transparent investigation into Navalny's death at an Arctic penal colony, reported Reuters. British Foreign Minister David Cameron asserted that Russian President Vladimir Putin should be held accountable for Navalny's demise. While attending a security conference in Munich, Cameron also stressed on the need for consequences, highlighting Navalny's courageous fight against corruption and for democracy. Both Cameron and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak paid tribute to Navalny, acknowledging his significant role as a staunch advocate for Russian democracy. Sunak praised Navalny as a fearless fighter for justice, underscoring the profound impact of his activism. Also read | 'From Ho-ho-ho to I love you': Here's how Putin critic Alexei Navalny described his last days in Arctic prison Supporters offer tribute across US, Europe Supporters of Navalny gathered across Europe and the United States on Friday (Feb 16) to honour the prominent opposition figure, who was widely recognised as Russia's leading dissident even during his imprisonment. Navalny's death was confirmed on Friday by officials at the Arctic prison where he was serving a 19-year sentence. From New York and Washington to various cities in Western Europe and capitals of former Soviet states, mourners paid tribute to Navalny, a charismatic lawyer who galvanised domestic opposition against Russian President Vladimir Putin. Many attendees attributed Navalny's death to Putin, with chants of "Putin murderer! Putin to The Hague" echoing outside Russian embassy in Berlin, referencing the International Criminal Court. In Warsaw, demonstrators gathered outside the Russian embassy, while in Switzerland, hundreds convened outside Zurich's railway station and in front of the United Nations in Geneva, carrying portraits of Navalny and white flowers. Also watch | Biden: Putin and his thugs caused Navalny's death In Moscow, small groups laid flowers at makeshift memorials, and similar scenes unfolded in cities like London, Vilnius, and New York, where people expressed grief and condemnation of Putin's regime. Navalny, allegedly collapsed and died at the "Polar Wolf" penal colony where he was serving a lengthy prison sentence. The circumstances surrounding his death have sparked outrage and renewed calls for accountability within Russia and beyond. (With inputs from agencies)

Alexei Navalny death: Over 170 supporters arrested in support rallies across Russia

The recent mysterious death&nbsp;of Alexei Navalny, a prominent Russian opposition figure, marks yet another sombre chapter in the ongoing saga of Kremlin critics meeting untimely deaths.

Navalny's death at&nbsp;an Arctic Circle jail, as announced by the Russian prison service, adds to a troubling pattern of suppression and elimination faced by those who dare to challenge Vladimir Putin.

From mysterious plane crashes to suspicious poisonings, the fates of these dissenting voices paint a chilling picture of political opposition in Russia. Take a look.

<h2>Yevgeny Prigozhin: The mutiny and the midair explosion</h2>

Yevgeny Prigozhin, once a powerful oligarch within Putin's inner circle, met a dramatic end in 2023 when the plane he was flying in exploded midair. This incident followed a failed mutiny led by Prigozhin against the Russian Ministry of Defence, highlighting the perilous consequences of dissent within Putin's regime.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-ho-ho-ho-to-i-love-you-heres-how-putin-critic-alexei-navalny-described-his-last-days-in-arctic-prison-691111">Also read |&nbsp;'From ho-ho-ho to I love you': Here's how Putin critic Alexei Navalny described his last days in Arctic prison</a>

<h2>Boris Nemtsov: A bridge too far</h2>

Boris Nemtsov, a vocal Kremlin critic and former deputy prime minister, was assassinated in 2015 near the Kremlin in Moscow. His outspoken opposition to Putin's government and his efforts to rally against Russian military actions in Ukraine ultimately led to his tragic demise.

<h2>Boris Berezovsky: From power to exile</h2>

Boris Berezovsky, once a formidable Russian businessman who went into exile in England, was found dead in 2013 with a noose around his neck. His fall from grace and subsequent death underscore the risks faced by those who fall out of favor with the Kremlin.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-tributes-for-navalny-supporters-condemn-russia-hold-putin-accountable-for-his-death-691127">Also read |&nbsp;Alexei Navalny death: Global tributes pour in, supporters condemn Russia, hold Putin accountable</a>

<h2>Alexander Litvinenko: Poisoned truths</h2>

Alexander Litvinenko, a former Russian spy turned critic, was fatally poisoned with polonium-210 in London in 2006. Despite evidence implicating Russian agents in his death, the Kremlin continues to deny involvement, reflecting a pattern of impunity.

<h2>Ravil Maganov: The Fatal fall</h2>

Ravil Maganov, chairman of Lukoil, died in a suspicious fall from a Moscow hospital window after openly criticising the war in Ukraine. His death, deemed a suicide by Russian state media, raises questions about the dangers of dissent within Russia's corporate elite.

<h2>Anna Politkovskaya: Targeted truths</h2>

Anna Politkovskaya, a courageous journalist and critic of Russia's actions in Chechnya, was gunned down in 2006. Despite convictions in connection with her murder, the masterminds behind her assassination remain elusive, highlighting the pervasive climate of impunity.

<h2>Sergei Magnitsky: Silenced by corruption</h2>

Sergei Magnitsky, a whistleblower who exposed corruption, died in prison under suspicious circumstances in 2009. His tragic fate underscores the dangers faced by those who challenge corruption within Putin's regime.

<h2>Alexander Perepilichnyy: Whistleblower's woes</h2>

Alexander Perepilichnyy, a financier turned whistleblower, died in 2012 under murky circumstances in the UK. While initially ruled as natural causes, allegations of poisoning cast a shadow over his untimely demise.

Beyond these high-profile cases, numerous Russian businessmen have reportedly met similar fates in the past year, with suicides and mysterious deaths haunting the landscape of dissent in Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

The recent mysterious death of Alexei Navalny, a prominent Russian opposition figure, marks yet another sombre chapter in the ongoing saga of Kremlin critics meeting untimely deaths.

The recent mysterious death of Alexei Navalny, a prominent Russian opposition figure, marks yet another sombre chapter in the ongoing saga of Kremlin critics meeting untimely deaths. Navalny's death at an Arctic Circle jail, as announced by the Russian prison service, adds to a troubling pattern of suppression and elimination faced by those who dare to challenge Vladimir Putin. From mysterious plane crashes to suspicious poisonings, the fates of these dissenting voices paint a chilling picture of political opposition in Russia. Take a look. Yevgeny Prigozhin: The mutiny and the midair explosion Yevgeny Prigozhin, once a powerful oligarch within Putin's inner circle, met a dramatic end in 2023 when the plane he was flying in exploded midair. This incident followed a failed mutiny led by Prigozhin against the Russian Ministry of Defence, highlighting the perilous consequences of dissent within Putin's regime. Also read | 'From ho-ho-ho to I love you': Here's how Putin critic Alexei Navalny described his last days in Arctic prison Boris Nemtsov: A bridge too far Boris Nemtsov, a vocal Kremlin critic and former deputy prime minister, was assassinated in 2015 near the Kremlin in Moscow. His outspoken opposition to Putin's government and his efforts to rally against Russian military actions in Ukraine ultimately led to his tragic demise. Boris Berezovsky: From power to exile Boris Berezovsky, once a formidable Russian businessman who went into exile in England, was found dead in 2013 with a noose around his neck. His fall from grace and subsequent death underscore the risks faced by those who fall out of favor with the Kremlin. Also read | Alexei Navalny death: Global tributes pour in, supporters condemn Russia, hold Putin accountable Alexander Litvinenko: Poisoned truths Alexander Litvinenko, a former Russian spy turned critic, was fatally poisoned with polonium-210 in London in 2006. Despite evidence implicating Russian agents in his death, the Kremlin continues to deny involvement, reflecting a pattern of impunity. Ravil Maganov: The Fatal fall Ravil Maganov, chairman of Lukoil, died in a suspicious fall from a Moscow hospital window after openly criticising the war in Ukraine. His death, deemed a suicide by Russian state media, raises questions about the dangers of dissent within Russia's corporate elite. Anna Politkovskaya: Targeted truths Anna Politkovskaya, a courageous journalist and critic of Russia's actions in Chechnya, was gunned down in 2006. Despite convictions in connection with her murder, the masterminds behind her assassination remain elusive, highlighting the pervasive climate of impunity. Sergei Magnitsky: Silenced by corruption Sergei Magnitsky, a whistleblower who exposed corruption, died in prison under suspicious circumstances in 2009. His tragic fate underscores the dangers faced by those who challenge corruption within Putin's regime. Alexander Perepilichnyy: Whistleblower's woes Alexander Perepilichnyy, a financier turned whistleblower, died in 2012 under murky circumstances in the UK. While initially ruled as natural causes, allegations of poisoning cast a shadow over his untimely demise. Beyond these high-profile cases, numerous Russian businessmen have reportedly met similar fates in the past year, with suicides and mysterious deaths haunting the landscape of dissent in Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

From Navalny to Prigozhin, many of Putin's critics have met unceremonious deaths

A Russian court handed down a nearly decade-long prison sentence to Ksenia Fadeyeva, who formerly led the now-banned organisation of jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny in Tomsk. This verdict is part of a broader trend of intensified repression against Russia's opposition, with the Kremlin tightening its grip on civil society since the commencement of a military operation in Ukraine in 2022.

Supporters reported that the court, presided over by 'judge' Khudyakov, declared a nine-year sentence for Fadeyeva on charges of extremism. The Telegram channel of her supporters conveyed the intention to appeal to the highest court, indicating a determined legal challenge to the verdict.

"The 'judge' Khudyakov has ordered a&nbsp;nine-year sentence against Ksenia&nbsp;Fadeyeva" for extremism, her&nbsp;supporters' Telegram channel said.&nbsp;

"Of course, the defence will appeal to the highest&nbsp;court," it added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-wished-modi-well-for-lok-sabha-elections-heres-what-it-means-for-india-russia-ties-674323">Also read|&nbsp;Putin wished Modi well for Lok Sabha elections. Here’s what it means for India-Russia ties</a>

<h2>Navalny's political office and repression</h2>

As the head of Navalny's political office in Tomsk, Fadeyeva played a significant role in a region where Navalny himself was poisoned in August 2020, ahead of elections.

Despite being elected to the Tomsk city legislature in 2020, a symbolic victory for the Russian opposition against President Vladimir Putin's regime, the authorities&nbsp;designated the group as an "extremist organisation" in 2021. This designation exposed its members and supporters to legal persecution.

While many of Navalny's allies chose to leave, Fadeyeva refused to flee and was apprehended in December 2021 on charges of organising an "extremist" group. The Russian government has frequently used&nbsp;laws related to "terrorist" and "extremist" activities to impose lengthy prison sentences on critics, a tactic exemplified by Navalny's own incarceration.

Also watch |&nbsp;S Jaishankar in Russia: India &amp; Russia sign pacts, inch closer to jointly producing weapons

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/s-jaishankar-in-russia-india-russia-sign-pacts-inch-closer-to-jointly-producing-weapons-wion-674222/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Navalny, who sparked widespread protests in Russia before his 2021 imprisonment on fraud charges, had his sentence extended to 19 years on extremism charges in 2023. Furthermore, he was relocated to a harsher colony in Russia's Arctic. The Anti-Corruption Foundation, led by regional heads, has faced similar repression, with allies like Lilia Chanysheva receiving substantial prison terms.

The sentencing of Ksenia Fadeyeva adds to the growing list of opposition figures facing severe legal consequences in Russia.

(With inputs from agencies)

A Russian court handed down a nearly decade-long prison sentence to Ksenia Fadeyeva, who formerly led the now-banned organisation of jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny in Tomsk.

A Russian court handed down a nearly decade-long prison sentence to Ksenia Fadeyeva, who formerly led the now-banned organisation of jailed opposition leader Alexei Navalny in Tomsk. This verdict is part of a broader trend of intensified repression against Russia's opposition, with the Kremlin tightening its grip on civil society since the commencement of a military operation in Ukraine in 2022. Supporters reported that the court, presided over by 'judge' Khudyakov, declared a nine-year sentence for Fadeyeva on charges of extremism. The Telegram channel of her supporters conveyed the intention to appeal to the highest court, indicating a determined legal challenge to the verdict. "The 'judge' Khudyakov has ordered a nine-year sentence against Ksenia Fadeyeva" for extremism, her supporters' Telegram channel said. "Of course, the defence will appeal to the highest court," it added. Also read| Putin wished Modi well for Lok Sabha elections. Here’s what it means for India-Russia ties Navalny's political office and repression As the head of Navalny's political office in Tomsk, Fadeyeva played a significant role in a region where Navalny himself was poisoned in August 2020, ahead of elections. Despite being elected to the Tomsk city legislature in 2020, a symbolic victory for the Russian opposition against President Vladimir Putin's regime, the authorities designated the group as an "extremist organisation" in 2021. This designation exposed its members and supporters to legal persecution. While many of Navalny's allies chose to leave, Fadeyeva refused to flee and was apprehended in December 2021 on charges of organising an "extremist" group. The Russian government has frequently used laws related to "terrorist" and "extremist" activities to impose lengthy prison sentences on critics, a tactic exemplified by Navalny's own incarceration. Also watch | S Jaishankar in Russia: India & Russia sign pacts, inch closer to jointly producing weapons Navalny, who sparked widespread protests in Russia before his 2021 imprisonment on fraud charges, had his sentence extended to 19 years on extremism charges in 2023. Furthermore, he was relocated to a harsher colony in Russia's Arctic. The Anti-Corruption Foundation, led by regional heads, has faced similar repression, with allies like Lilia Chanysheva receiving substantial prison terms. The sentencing of Ksenia Fadeyeva adds to the growing list of opposition figures facing severe legal consequences in Russia. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian court hands nine-year prison term to Navalny ally Ksenia Fadeyeva

Jailed Kremlin critic <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/alexei-navalny">Alexei Navalny</a> has been transferred from a prison hospital back to his penal colony after receiving treatment following a hunger strike, his allies said Monday.

Navalny was jailed for two and a half years in February on old embezzlement charges he and his supporters say are politically motivated.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-critic-gudkov-leaves-russia-fearing-new-arrest-389844" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-critic-gudkov-leaves-russia-fearing-new-arrest-389844&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiB6ISi64XxAhUFzjgGHXuuBIEQFjABegQIAhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw37YFJrD6sXAtv081ftVDM7" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kremlin-critic-gudkov-leaves-russia-fearing-new-arrest-389844" target="_blank">Kremlin critic Gudkov leaves Russia fearing new arrest</a>

He was sentenced shortly after returning to Russia from Germany, where he was receiving treatment for a near-fatal poisoning attack with a nerve agent.

President Vladimir Putin's most outspoken domestic critic declared a hunger strike in March to demand proper medical treatment for a growing list of health complaints, including back pain and numbness in his limbs.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-critic-alexei-navalny-sues-prison-for-censoring-his-newspapers-387616" hreflang="en">Putin critic Alexei Navalny sues prison for censoring his newspapers</a>

Navalny in April was transferred to a prison hospital in another penal colony as the West warned it would hold the Kremlin responsible for the state of his health.&nbsp;

The opposition politician called off the strike 24 days later.

"Navalny has been transferred back to the Penal Colony No. 2," Navalny's team said on Twitter on Monday.

The prison is located in the town of Pokrov 100 kilometres (60 miles) east of Moscow.&nbsp;

A court in Moscow is considering whether to designate Navalny's political network as an "extremist" organisation, which would remove potential challengers to the ruling United Russia party ahead of parliamentary elections in September.

A decision is expected as early as this week.

Last Friday, Putin approved an anti-extremism law expected to be used to ban his allies from running in elections. The Kremlin chief signed off on the legislation the day Navalny marked his 45th birthday behind bars.

Many of his close allies are either outside Russia or under arrest.

On Sunday, prominent Kremlin critic and former opposition lawmaker Dmitry Gudkov said he had left Russia for Ukraine due to pressure from authorities ahead of the elections.&nbsp;

Citing sources close to the Kremlin, Gudkov, 41, said that if he did not leave he would be arrested over a "fake" criminal case against him.

Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny has been transferred from a prison hospital back to his penal colony after receiving treatment following a hunger strike, his allies said Monday.

Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny has been transferred from a prison hospital back to his penal colony after receiving treatment following a hunger strike, his allies said Monday. Navalny was jailed for two and a half years in February on old embezzlement charges he and his supporters say are politically motivated. Also read | Kremlin critic Gudkov leaves Russia fearing new arrest He was sentenced shortly after returning to Russia from Germany, where he was receiving treatment for a near-fatal poisoning attack with a nerve agent. President Vladimir Putin's most outspoken domestic critic declared a hunger strike in March to demand proper medical treatment for a growing list of health complaints, including back pain and numbness in his limbs. Also read | Putin critic Alexei Navalny sues prison for censoring his newspapers Navalny in April was transferred to a prison hospital in another penal colony as the West warned it would hold the Kremlin responsible for the state of his health. The opposition politician called off the strike 24 days later. "Navalny has been transferred back to the Penal Colony No. 2," Navalny's team said on Twitter on Monday. The prison is located in the town of Pokrov 100 kilometres (60 miles) east of Moscow. A court in Moscow is considering whether to designate Navalny's political network as an "extremist" organisation, which would remove potential challengers to the ruling United Russia party ahead of parliamentary elections in September. A decision is expected as early as this week. Last Friday, Putin approved an anti-extremism law expected to be used to ban his allies from running in elections. The Kremlin chief signed off on the legislation the day Navalny marked his 45th birthday behind bars. Many of his close allies are either outside Russia or under arrest. On Sunday, prominent Kremlin critic and former opposition lawmaker Dmitry Gudkov said he had left Russia for Ukraine due to pressure from authorities ahead of the elections. Citing sources close to the Kremlin, Gudkov, 41, said that if he did not leave he would be arrested over a "fake" criminal case against him.

Navalny transferred to prison after hunger strike: Allies

Close allies of jailed Alexei Navalny, Russian President Vladimir Putin`s most vocal critic, pledged on Sunday to continue their actions despite the prospect of being outlawed under extremism charges.

Moscow City Court is expected to rule in a few days on a request from a Moscow prosecutor to officially outlaw the backbone of Navalny`s political movement - the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) - on the grounds that it is an extremist group.

Such a ruling, if it happens, would give the authorities the legal power to arrest and jail his supporters and block their bank accounts simply for being activists in the foundation.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="Navalny says continuing hunger strike despite cough and fever, risks death in prison">Navalny says continuing hunger strike despite cough and fever, risks death in prison</a>

Leonid Volkov, chief of staff of Navalny's team, said on Sunday the group would continue its work, including investigations into corruption.

"We are not going to give up," Volkov said in an online broadcast. Volkov lives in Lithuania.

Navalny was jailed in February for 2-1/2 years on charges he called politically motivated. On Friday, he said, he would start gradually ending a hunger strike after getting medical care.

Navalny's allies have pressed ahead with his "smart voting" strategy, supporting politicians outside of pro-Kremlin United Russia party they believe to be well placed to beat the ruling party candidates and urging Russians to vote for them.

Russians are set to vote in general elections in September.

"We have time, desire and strength to restructure our work, to get the smart voting to the elections and beat the United Russia," said Volkov.

Close allies of jailed Alexei Navalny, Russian President Vladimir Putin`s most vocal critic, pledged on Sunday to continue their actions despite the prospect of being outlawed under extremism charges.

Close allies of jailed Alexei Navalny, Russian President Vladimir Putin`s most vocal critic, pledged on Sunday to continue their actions despite the prospect of being outlawed under extremism charges. Moscow City Court is expected to rule in a few days on a request from a Moscow prosecutor to officially outlaw the backbone of Navalny`s political movement - the Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK) - on the grounds that it is an extremist group. Such a ruling, if it happens, would give the authorities the legal power to arrest and jail his supporters and block their bank accounts simply for being activists in the foundation. Also read: Navalny says continuing hunger strike despite cough and fever, risks death in prison Leonid Volkov, chief of staff of Navalny's team, said on Sunday the group would continue its work, including investigations into corruption. "We are not going to give up," Volkov said in an online broadcast. Volkov lives in Lithuania. Navalny was jailed in February for 2-1/2 years on charges he called politically motivated. On Friday, he said, he would start gradually ending a hunger strike after getting medical care. Navalny's allies have pressed ahead with his "smart voting" strategy, supporting politicians outside of pro-Kremlin United Russia party they believe to be well placed to beat the ruling party candidates and urging Russians to vote for them. Russians are set to vote in general elections in September. "We have time, desire and strength to restructure our work, to get the smart voting to the elections and beat the United Russia," said Volkov.

Allies of Russia's Navalny defiant in face of possible extremism charges

At the turn of the millenium, a man not many had heard of took over the reigns of Russia — Vladimir Putin became the Prime Minister of Russia in August 1999.

Putin was a political nobody. Even to his wife, the appointment reportedly came as a surprise. He was handpicked by then-President Boris Yeltsin and the KGB. Within three months, he was handed the Kremlin on a plate and was told he would succeed Yeltsin and lead Russia into the 21st century.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-will-putin-survive-the-protests-361670/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The reason behind this is Yeltsin trusted only family and KGB and Putin is former KGB.

The 47-year-old new President addressed the country wearing an ill-fitted suit. It took Putin's entourage well over a year to find him a suit that fits. It's been 20 years since the baton was handed to a camera-shy Putin and a lot has changed since then.

Now, Vladimir Putin is the founder of the Strongman's Club. He is the longest-serving Russian leader since Joseph Stalin and parallels are drawn between Putin and the Russian Tsars.

Putin is everywhere in Russia — from T-shirts to calendars and mugs. He has transformed Russia into an increasingly dictatorial state where its people have fewer rights and freedoms.&nbsp;

Putin has moved away from the West, embraced isolationism, annexed Crimea, fought in Ukraine and despite everything, he remains Russia's most popular leader.

This is only the fourth time that Putin's ratings have taken a dent.

Previously it was because of unpopular reform to social benefits in 2015, rigged parliamentary elections in 2011 and pension reforms in 2019.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-navalny-built-an-opposition-in-russia-despite-putins-tight-grip-on-power-359519">How Navalny built an opposition in Russia despite Putin's tight grip on power</a>

Today, some 46 per cent of Russians aged 18-24 say they do not approve of Putin. However, these numbers mean nothing — just like Russia's recent referendum that allowed Putin to be President for life.

Russians know that Putin is backed by the oligarchs. They have seen dissidents dying, disappearing or being drugged. The murder of former Russian spy, Alexander Litvinenko in 2016 shocked the world. Rebel Chechnya leader Zelimkhan Yandarbiyev was assassinated in Qatar, Sergei Skripal was targeted in Salisbury, the UK. All the trails lead back to Moscow and the tale, each time, is of Russia's growing appetite for risk.

We often refer to Pakistan as a terror state, which it is, but the Kremlin, too, has its terror squad that takes down dissidents at home and abroad.

In the last 20 years, Putin has tightened his grip on power, changed the constitution to suit his dreams and gone after anyone who came in between. Therefore, Alexei Navalny was no exception, but what Putin did not expect was for Navalny to outmanoeuvre him.

Navalny used his recovery time to investigate attacks on journalists and exposed corruption in Putin's system, which was detailed in a two-hour documentary. Navalny also duped Russian agents into spilling the details of his poisoning. Now, Navalny has kickstarted what Putin fears the most: a Ukraine-style Maidan revolution. From Moscow to St. Petersburg, protesters have taken to the streets across Russia with demonstrations in at least 100 cities. Putin knows the history and he understands the threat such protests come with. He knows that protests eventually toppled the Tsarist rule too.

The Kremlin critic is definitely the biggest challenge to Putin at home in his 20 years of leadership, but Putin has been written off before too. Experts predicted that Putin would be mowed down by a crisis like Yeltsin, but he survived, not only the war in Chechnya but also the 2002 Moscow seige or the annexation of Crimea.

Remember, we are talking about a man who orchestrated the Salisbury poisoning just months before the 2018 FIFA world cup. He is not afraid of interfering with the elections of the world's oldest democracy or hacking into the servers of vaccine manufacturers across the globe.

So, while Navalny is definitely Putin's biggest test till date, predicting Putin's fall would be speaking too soon.

At the turn of the millenium, a man not many had heard of took over the reigns of Russia — Vladimir Putin became the Prime Minister of Russia in August 1999. Putin was a political nobody.

At the turn of the millenium, a man not many had heard of took over the reigns of Russia — Vladimir Putin became the Prime Minister of Russia in August 1999. Putin was a political nobody. Even to his wife, the appointment reportedly came as a surprise. He was handpicked by then-President Boris Yeltsin and the KGB. Within three months, he was handed the Kremlin on a plate and was told he would succeed Yeltsin and lead Russia into the 21st century. The reason behind this is Yeltsin trusted only family and KGB and Putin is former KGB. The 47-year-old new President addressed the country wearing an ill-fitted suit. It took Putin's entourage well over a year to find him a suit that fits. It's been 20 years since the baton was handed to a camera-shy Putin and a lot has changed since then. Now, Vladimir Putin is the founder of the Strongman's Club. He is the longest-serving Russian leader since Joseph Stalin and parallels are drawn between Putin and the Russian Tsars. Putin is everywhere in Russia — from T-shirts to calendars and mugs. He has transformed Russia into an increasingly dictatorial state where its people have fewer rights and freedoms. Putin has moved away from the West, embraced isolationism, annexed Crimea, fought in Ukraine and despite everything, he remains Russia's most popular leader. This is only the fourth time that Putin's ratings have taken a dent. Previously it was because of unpopular reform to social benefits in 2015, rigged parliamentary elections in 2011 and pension reforms in 2019. Also read| How Navalny built an opposition in Russia despite Putin's tight grip on power Today, some 46 per cent of Russians aged 18-24 say they do not approve of Putin. However, these numbers mean nothing — just like Russia's recent referendum that allowed Putin to be President for life. Russians know that Putin is backed by the oligarchs. They have seen dissidents dying, disappearing or being drugged. The murder of former Russian spy, Alexander Litvinenko in 2016 shocked the world. Rebel Chechnya leader Zelimkhan Yandarbiyev was assassinated in Qatar, Sergei Skripal was targeted in Salisbury, the UK. All the trails lead back to Moscow and the tale, each time, is of Russia's growing appetite for risk. We often refer to Pakistan as a terror state, which it is, but the Kremlin, too, has its terror squad that takes down dissidents at home and abroad. In the last 20 years, Putin has tightened his grip on power, changed the constitution to suit his dreams and gone after anyone who came in between. Therefore, Alexei Navalny was no exception, but what Putin did not expect was for Navalny to outmanoeuvre him. Navalny used his recovery time to investigate attacks on journalists and exposed corruption in Putin's system, which was detailed in a two-hour documentary. Navalny also duped Russian agents into spilling the details of his poisoning. Now, Navalny has kickstarted what Putin fears the most: a Ukraine-style Maidan revolution. From Moscow to St. Petersburg, protesters have taken to the streets across Russia with demonstrations in at least 100 cities. Putin knows the history and he understands the threat such protests come with. He knows that protests eventually toppled the Tsarist rule too. The Kremlin critic is definitely the biggest challenge to Putin at home in his 20 years of leadership, but Putin has been written off before too. Experts predicted that Putin would be mowed down by a crisis like Yeltsin, but he survived, not only the war in Chechnya but also the 2002 Moscow seige or the annexation of Crimea. Remember, we are talking about a man who orchestrated the Salisbury poisoning just months before the 2018 FIFA world cup. He is not afraid of interfering with the elections of the world's oldest democracy or hacking into the servers of vaccine manufacturers across the globe. So, while Navalny is definitely Putin's biggest test till date, predicting Putin's fall would be speaking too soon.

From ill-fitting suits to silencing critics: Journey of Vladimir Putin challenged by Alexei Navalny

As a video shows Russian authorities are struggling to accommodate thousands of protesters arrested during the rallies sparked by the arrest of the opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

Russia: Protesters packed into small cells with poor facilities

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