Former US president Donald Trump's comment that he would not defend NATO members that do not meet defence spending targets continued to evoke reactions in the European capitals all this week. But Moscow's response to Putin critic Alexei Navalny's death in an Arctic jail as well as major battlefield gain in Ukraine after the fall of Adviika dominated the news cycle.

Elsewhere, a new president has been elected to govern Indonesia. While in Islamabad, the country's disputed elections continue to loom large as the caretaker prime minister awaits a successor amid the military's defining dominance.&nbsp;

Read this and more in The Capitals this week.

<h2>Doha, Qatar; Abu Dhabi, UAE</h2>

Visiting West Asia this week, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi first stopped at Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where he signed an investment treaty, addressed a gathering of 40,000 Indian expatriates, and opened a vast new Hindu temple. Modi then headed to the Qatari capital Doha days after New Delhi secured the release of eight Indians jailed there for alleged espionage. Meanwhile, several Indian Navy ships were in close vicinity, aiding the protection of global shipping under threat from Houthi attacks.&nbsp;

Also watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: India's PM Modi inaugurates first Hindu mandir in Abu Dhabi | Temples in Muslim countries

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New Delhi's geopolitical heft in West Asia was&nbsp;in full display this week as Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded one of his final overseas visits ahead of India's General Elections later this year in which he is seeking a third term in a row.

<h2>Brussels, Belgium (European Union headquarters)</h2>

Former US President Donald Trump again said that if he returns to the White House, he would not defend NATO members that don’t meet defence spending targets. The alarm bells rang in Brussels as the NATO allies of the United States braced for a potential Trump win.&nbsp;

Now 18 of the 31 countries announced that they are set to spend 2 per cent of their GDP on defence, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said.&nbsp;

As of 2016, only 5 of the 31 countries met the 2 per cent spending target.&nbsp;

"We have to listen and take note of the following: the criticism that we hear [from Trump] is not primarily about NATO. It is about NATO allies not spending enough. And that is a valid point that European allies and Canada have to spend more," Stoltenbrg said.&nbsp;

<h2>Moscow, Russia</h2>

Alexei Navalny, Russian President Vladimir Putin's most vociferous critic died in an Arctic Circle jail while serving 19 years on extremism charges. While the Kremlin said that Russia's penitentiary service was making all checks regarding Navalny's death, the West's accusation of President Putin's role sparked defensive outrage in Russian corridors of power.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, as the war in Ukraine is about to enter its third year in the third week of February, Russian troops captured Adviivka in Ukraine, one of the most fortified settlements that have been described as a 'gateway' to the nearby Russia-controlled Donetsk.&nbsp;

Moscow claimed that it was in complete control of Avdiivka after Kyiv withdrew its forces from the area.

<h2>Jakarta, Indonesia</h2>

Indonesian Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto declared victory in this week's presidential election after unofficial results showed him trouncing rivals in his third shot at the top job in the world's third-largest democracy.

Prabowo galvanised support with the tacit backing of the wildly popular incumbent Joko Widodo, who bet on his former rival as a continuity candidate to preserve his legacy, bolstered by the inclusion of the president's son Gibran Rakabuming Raka as Prabowo's running mate.

The world's biggest single-day election saw nearly 259,000 candidates and 18 parties contest 20,600 posts across the archipelago of 17,000 islands.&nbsp;

Washington said that the vote was "a testament to the durability and strength of the Indonesian people's commitment to the democratic process".

<h2>Islamabad, Pakistan</h2>

The disputed Feb 8 elections of Pakistan continue to keep uncertain waters of Pakistan's corridors of power rather choppier. The country's Supreme Court on Monday (Feb 19) will hear the petition if the elections should be declared null and void.

That's all for The Capitals this week. See you next weekend.&nbsp;

Former US president Donald Trump's comment that he would not defend NATO members that do not meet defence spending targets continued to evoke reactions in the European capitals all this week.

Former US president Donald Trump's comment that he would not defend NATO members that do not meet defence spending targets continued to evoke reactions in the European capitals all this week. But Moscow's response to Putin critic Alexei Navalny's death in an Arctic jail as well as major battlefield gain in Ukraine after the fall of Adviika dominated the news cycle. Elsewhere, a new president has been elected to govern Indonesia. While in Islamabad, the country's disputed elections continue to loom large as the caretaker prime minister awaits a successor amid the military's defining dominance. Read this and more in The Capitals this week. Doha, Qatar; Abu Dhabi, UAE Visiting West Asia this week, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi first stopped at Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where he signed an investment treaty, addressed a gathering of 40,000 Indian expatriates, and opened a vast new Hindu temple. Modi then headed to the Qatari capital Doha days after New Delhi secured the release of eight Indians jailed there for alleged espionage. Meanwhile, several Indian Navy ships were in close vicinity, aiding the protection of global shipping under threat from Houthi attacks. Also watch | Gravitas: India's PM Modi inaugurates first Hindu mandir in Abu Dhabi | Temples in Muslim countries × New Delhi's geopolitical heft in West Asia was in full display this week as Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded one of his final overseas visits ahead of India's General Elections later this year in which he is seeking a third term in a row. Brussels, Belgium (European Union headquarters) Former US President Donald Trump again said that if he returns to the White House, he would not defend NATO members that don’t meet defence spending targets. The alarm bells rang in Brussels as the NATO allies of the United States braced for a potential Trump win. Now 18 of the 31 countries announced that they are set to spend 2 per cent of their GDP on defence, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said. As of 2016, only 5 of the 31 countries met the 2 per cent spending target. "We have to listen and take note of the following: the criticism that we hear [from Trump] is not primarily about NATO. It is about NATO allies not spending enough. And that is a valid point that European allies and Canada have to spend more," Stoltenbrg said. Moscow, Russia Alexei Navalny, Russian President Vladimir Putin's most vociferous critic died in an Arctic Circle jail while serving 19 years on extremism charges. While the Kremlin said that Russia's penitentiary service was making all checks regarding Navalny's death, the West's accusation of President Putin's role sparked defensive outrage in Russian corridors of power. Meanwhile, as the war in Ukraine is about to enter its third year in the third week of February, Russian troops captured Adviivka in Ukraine, one of the most fortified settlements that have been described as a 'gateway' to the nearby Russia-controlled Donetsk. Moscow claimed that it was in complete control of Avdiivka after Kyiv withdrew its forces from the area. Jakarta, Indonesia Indonesian Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto declared victory in this week's presidential election after unofficial results showed him trouncing rivals in his third shot at the top job in the world's third-largest democracy. Prabowo galvanised support with the tacit backing of the wildly popular incumbent Joko Widodo, who bet on his former rival as a continuity candidate to preserve his legacy, bolstered by the inclusion of the president's son Gibran Rakabuming Raka as Prabowo's running mate. The world's biggest single-day election saw nearly 259,000 candidates and 18 parties contest 20,600 posts across the archipelago of 17,000 islands. Washington said that the vote was "a testament to the durability and strength of the Indonesian people's commitment to the democratic process". Islamabad, Pakistan The disputed Feb 8 elections of Pakistan continue to keep uncertain waters of Pakistan's corridors of power rather choppier. The country's Supreme Court on Monday (Feb 19) will hear the petition if the elections should be declared null and void. That's all for The Capitals this week. See you next weekend.

The Capitals: Delhi’s historic West Asia moment; Moscow after Navalny's death; and more

Russian Opposition Leader Alexei Navalny News: Alexei Navalny, the most prominent face of political opposition in Russia has died, as per reports in Russian media later confirmed by the spokesperson of the Putin critic. As per initial reports, Navalny died in the prison. In Russia headed by President Vladimir Putin for last few decades, opposing the all-powerful leader is a very huge thing to start with. But Navalny has been doing it for years, and openly. He not only contested elections against Putin (which Putin won) but also created institutionalised network of people any political movement needs to be a social force. Navalny has dodged death many times in past and created an aura around himself of being a fighter, challenging Putin in his own domain.

Navalny was often seen as an 'irritant' to Putin. One who refused to quit and kept going on. In spite of a number of impediments in his political path, allegedly 'created' by the Russian state, Navalny always appeared to find a way. And thus, he solidified his reputation as a political survivor, which in Russian context, is a huge thing, especially, if you are opposed to Putin.

Navalny was active in Russian politics since the 2000s. In his initial years of political involvement, he jumped into local politics, especially that in Russian capital Moscow. He did make waves and rose through political ranks in the initial years but his time in domestic and global limelight predominantly came in 2010s.

It's interesting to examine how Navalny battled political obstacles to keep on going.

<h2>Russian parliamentary elections and protests (2011)</h2>

The Russian parliamentary elections held in the month of December in 2011 drew widespread criticism of election fraud. Although mass anti-Putin protests in Russia are rare, Navalny was part of a Moscow demonstration that drew about 6000 people. Hundreds of people were arrested along with Navalny. He was handed a jail sentence of maximum 15 days.

Though this looks like a minor thing, the adversity of having been sentenced to jail turned into opportunity as Navalny suddenly became a prominent name. He seized the opportunity and began projecting himself globally. After this arrest and sentencing, his blog quickly became available in English and he was able to address wider audience in the unofficial lingua franca.

He had savvy web presence already, but as some Russian news outlets claimed, the arrest in 2011 made him an offline leader in addition to being an online one.

Watch | Alexei Navalny dead in prison, says Russia | Navalny's team says not informed about his death

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It is important to note that under the watch of a president like Putin, who has ruthlessly crushed opposition, having come so far was in itself an achievement for Navalny. But he didn't stop there.

After his release from jail, Navalny made an open call to resist Putin.

It was not on Navalny's mind to challenge Putin directly in presidential elections, but he had taken initial steps.

In 2012, an anti-Putin rally Navalny organised in Moscow drew tens of thousands of people.

<h2>A new party (2012)</h2>

Supporters of the Kremlin-critic formed a party with a name "The People's Alliance". The Russian bureaucracy did everything it could to deny recognition but his supporters applied with different name each time recognition was denied. After initial reluctance, Navalny joined the party.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-opposition-politician-alexei-navalny-is-dead-reports-690945">Alexei Navalny, most ardent Putin critic in recent years dies in prison, says Russian state media</a>

This again, was a statement against Putin as his critic had become leader of a political party.

<h2>Challenging Putin in presidential elections (2018)</h2>

In a country where even a simple challenge to the president suddenly put a leader in political crosshairs and more, Navalny openly declared that he would contest presidential elections.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brutal-murder-world-reacts-to-reports-of-kremlin-critic-alexei-navalnys-death-690970">'Brutal murder': World reacts to reports of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's death</a>

Navalny was attacked by unknown assailants just outside his office in 2017. He was sprayed with a dye that can potentially damage a person's eye. In another similar attack, Navalny reportedly lost most of the sight of his right eye.

To deter him from contesting elections, Russian bureaucracy and state machinery slapped jail sentences on him and Russia's election body disbarred him from contesting.

<h2>Arrests and hospitalisation around Duma elections (2019)</h2>

In spite of previous attack, Navalny stuck to his political line and chose to support independent candidates. He was arrested multiple times and then was hospitalised because of severe damage to eye and skin. It was claimed that he was suffering from 'allergy' but this was disputed.

<h2>Novichok poisoning (2020)</h2>

This was the most prominent attack on Navalny which nearly killed him. A Soviet-era nerve agent Novichok was used against him and after his health deteriorated during a domestic flight in Russia, he was hospitalised. He was then taken to Germany for treatment where he recovered.

It was possible for Navalny to stay in Germany and be an 'in-exile' opposition leader. But he chose to return and was promptly arrested, convicted and sent to prison, including the one in the dreaded Siberian region.

Navalny survived a lot of situations which normally would make an ordinary human being quit their rebellion and take a safe route. Somehow, Navalny did not do this, and kept on fighting astronomical odds stacked against him. This time however, it is being feared that Putin might finally have got his way.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian Opposition Leader Alexei Navalny News: Alexei Navalny, the most prominent face of political opposition in Russia has died, as per reports in Russian media later confirmed by the spokesperson of the Putin critic.

Russian Opposition Leader Alexei Navalny News: Alexei Navalny, the most prominent face of political opposition in Russia has died, as per reports in Russian media later confirmed by the spokesperson of the Putin critic. As per initial reports, Navalny died in the prison. In Russia headed by President Vladimir Putin for last few decades, opposing the all-powerful leader is a very huge thing to start with. But Navalny has been doing it for years, and openly. He not only contested elections against Putin (which Putin won) but also created institutionalised network of people any political movement needs to be a social force. Navalny has dodged death many times in past and created an aura around himself of being a fighter, challenging Putin in his own domain. Navalny was often seen as an 'irritant' to Putin. One who refused to quit and kept going on. In spite of a number of impediments in his political path, allegedly 'created' by the Russian state, Navalny always appeared to find a way. And thus, he solidified his reputation as a political survivor, which in Russian context, is a huge thing, especially, if you are opposed to Putin. Navalny was active in Russian politics since the 2000s. In his initial years of political involvement, he jumped into local politics, especially that in Russian capital Moscow. He did make waves and rose through political ranks in the initial years but his time in domestic and global limelight predominantly came in 2010s. It's interesting to examine how Navalny battled political obstacles to keep on going. Russian parliamentary elections and protests (2011) The Russian parliamentary elections held in the month of December in 2011 drew widespread criticism of election fraud. Although mass anti-Putin protests in Russia are rare, Navalny was part of a Moscow demonstration that drew about 6000 people. Hundreds of people were arrested along with Navalny. He was handed a jail sentence of maximum 15 days. Though this looks like a minor thing, the adversity of having been sentenced to jail turned into opportunity as Navalny suddenly became a prominent name. He seized the opportunity and began projecting himself globally. After this arrest and sentencing, his blog quickly became available in English and he was able to address wider audience in the unofficial lingua franca. He had savvy web presence already, but as some Russian news outlets claimed, the arrest in 2011 made him an offline leader in addition to being an online one. Watch | Alexei Navalny dead in prison, says Russia | Navalny's team says not informed about his death × It is important to note that under the watch of a president like Putin, who has ruthlessly crushed opposition, having come so far was in itself an achievement for Navalny. But he didn't stop there. After his release from jail, Navalny made an open call to resist Putin. It was not on Navalny's mind to challenge Putin directly in presidential elections, but he had taken initial steps. In 2012, an anti-Putin rally Navalny organised in Moscow drew tens of thousands of people. A new party (2012) Supporters of the Kremlin-critic formed a party with a name "The People's Alliance". The Russian bureaucracy did everything it could to deny recognition but his supporters applied with different name each time recognition was denied. After initial reluctance, Navalny joined the party. Also Read | Alexei Navalny, most ardent Putin critic in recent years dies in prison, says Russian state media This again, was a statement against Putin as his critic had become leader of a political party. Challenging Putin in presidential elections (2018) In a country where even a simple challenge to the president suddenly put a leader in political crosshairs and more, Navalny openly declared that he would contest presidential elections. Also Read | 'Brutal murder': World reacts to reports of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's death Navalny was attacked by unknown assailants just outside his office in 2017. He was sprayed with a dye that can potentially damage a person's eye. In another similar attack, Navalny reportedly lost most of the sight of his right eye. To deter him from contesting elections, Russian bureaucracy and state machinery slapped jail sentences on him and Russia's election body disbarred him from contesting. Arrests and hospitalisation around Duma elections (2019) In spite of previous attack, Navalny stuck to his political line and chose to support independent candidates. He was arrested multiple times and then was hospitalised because of severe damage to eye and skin. It was claimed that he was suffering from 'allergy' but this was disputed. Novichok poisoning (2020) This was the most prominent attack on Navalny which nearly killed him. A Soviet-era nerve agent Novichok was used against him and after his health deteriorated during a domestic flight in Russia, he was hospitalised. He was then taken to Germany for treatment where he recovered. It was possible for Navalny to stay in Germany and be an 'in-exile' opposition leader. But he chose to return and was promptly arrested, convicted and sent to prison, including the one in the dreaded Siberian region. Navalny survived a lot of situations which normally would make an ordinary human being quit their rebellion and take a safe route. Somehow, Navalny did not do this, and kept on fighting astronomical odds stacked against him. This time however, it is being feared that Putin might finally have got his way. (With inputs from agencies)

Explained | The many lives of Alexei Navalny: The Russian opposition leader who survived, till now

Alexei Navalny’s body has been found, which shows signs of bruises and use of force, reported several media outlets citing paramedics. On Friday (Feb 16), Russia’s prison service said the 47-year-old Putin critic died after a walk at the ‘Polar Wolf’ penal colony in Kharp – about 1,900 km (1,200 miles) northeast of Moscow.

Alexei Navalny death: Navalny’s body found with ‘bruises’ as West holds Putin responsible

World mourns Russian opposition leader's death. Russian police officials detain over 100 people at memorials organised for kremlin critic leader's death. Meanwhile, Navalny's team says Russian investigators are lying to keep the leader's body. Watch to know more!

Alexei Navalny death: Navalny's team accuses Russia of 'hiding' body | Latest News

Deceased Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny's colleague said on Saturday (Feb 17) that Russian authorities told Navalny's mother that he died due to "sudden death syndrome", reported Reuters. The news report also said that authorities indicated they would hand over Navalny's body after investigation was complete.

Navalny (47) fell unconscious and died on Friday inside 'Polar Wolf' penal colony located around 1900 kilometres northwest of Moscow. Navalny was serving a three-decade sentence in the penal colony in Kharp.

Navalny's 69-years-old mother Lyudmila rushed to the penal colony on Saturday despite frigid Arctic temperatures of minus 30 degrees Celsius

"When Alexei's lawyer and mother arrived at the colony this morning, they were told that the cause of Navalny's death was sudden death syndrome," said Ivan Zhdanov, chief of Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Translation of his post in Russian language was published by Reuters.

Watch | Russian officials not releasing Navalny's body: Navalny's team | Alexei Navalny death mystery

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'Sudden death syndrome' is a vague term for different cardiac syndromes.

Explained | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-many-lives-of-navalny-the-valiant-fighter-who-survived-till-now-690996">The many lives of Alexei Navalny: The fighter who survived, till now</a>

Navalny's spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh previously said that Navalny's mother was given death notice which stated 2:17 pm local time (0917 GMT) on February 16 as his time of death. Lyudmila was not able to see Navalny's body. She was told that it had been taken to Salekhard, a nearby town. But when she reached there, the morgue was closed.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexey-navalny-was-murdered-russian-opposition-leaders-spokeswoman-confirms-reports-of-his-death-691208">‘Alexei Navalny was murdered,’ Russian opposition leader’s spokeswoman confirms reports of his death</a>

"Right now we don't have access to the body and we don't know for sure where it is, and we demand that the Russian authorities immediately give Alexei's body to his family," Yarmysh said, as quoted by Reuters.

Navalny's death has profoundly shocked the world and there have been sharp reactions from the Western countries. US President Joe Biden lauded Navalny's courage and accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of being behind the opposition leader's death. The UK has said that there would be consequences for Russia.

Navalny has become another name in long list of people who posed considerable political or military threat to Putin and later died.

(With inputs from agencies)

Deceased Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny's colleague said on Saturday (Feb 17) that Russian authorities told Navalny's mother that he died due to "sudden death syndrome", reported Reuters.

Deceased Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny's colleague said on Saturday (Feb 17) that Russian authorities told Navalny's mother that he died due to "sudden death syndrome", reported Reuters. The news report also said that authorities indicated they would hand over Navalny's body after investigation was complete. Navalny (47) fell unconscious and died on Friday inside 'Polar Wolf' penal colony located around 1900 kilometres northwest of Moscow. Navalny was serving a three-decade sentence in the penal colony in Kharp. Navalny's 69-years-old mother Lyudmila rushed to the penal colony on Saturday despite frigid Arctic temperatures of minus 30 degrees Celsius "When Alexei's lawyer and mother arrived at the colony this morning, they were told that the cause of Navalny's death was sudden death syndrome," said Ivan Zhdanov, chief of Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, in a post on X (formerly Twitter). Translation of his post in Russian language was published by Reuters. Watch | Russian officials not releasing Navalny's body: Navalny's team | Alexei Navalny death mystery × 'Sudden death syndrome' is a vague term for different cardiac syndromes. Explained | The many lives of Alexei Navalny: The fighter who survived, till now Navalny's spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh previously said that Navalny's mother was given death notice which stated 2:17 pm local time (0917 GMT) on February 16 as his time of death. Lyudmila was not able to see Navalny's body. She was told that it had been taken to Salekhard, a nearby town. But when she reached there, the morgue was closed. Also Read | ‘Alexei Navalny was murdered,’ Russian opposition leader’s spokeswoman confirms reports of his death "Right now we don't have access to the body and we don't know for sure where it is, and we demand that the Russian authorities immediately give Alexei's body to his family," Yarmysh said, as quoted by Reuters. Navalny's death has profoundly shocked the world and there have been sharp reactions from the Western countries. US President Joe Biden lauded Navalny's courage and accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of being behind the opposition leader's death. The UK has said that there would be consequences for Russia. Navalny has become another name in long list of people who posed considerable political or military threat to Putin and later died. (With inputs from agencies)

Authorities told Alexei Navalny’s mother that he died due to ‘sudden death syndrome’

Alexei Navalny death: Navalny's team confirms death, family demands body 'immediately'

Alexei Navalny, Russia's most prominent opposition leader and Putin's fiercest domestic critic has reportedly died in a Russian prison. How did the anti-corruption activist die?

Gravitas: Alexei Navalny, Putin's fiercest critic, mysteriously dies in Russian jail

In the latest,&nbsp;General Oleksandr Tarnavsky of Ukraine announced that Ukrainian forces had pulled out from the eastern town of Avdiivka. In other news, former US President Donald Trump has been ordered to pay $354.9 million to the state of New York in penalties.&nbsp;In India's foreign policy realm, External Affairs Minister S&nbsp;Jaishankar held talks with his Canadian counterpart and the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken.&nbsp;

Click on the headlines to read more.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-withdraws-forces-from-avdiivka-hours-after-signing-french-security-deal-691084">Ukraine withdraws forces from Avdiivka, hours after signing French security deal</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/17/412647-untitled-design-2024-02-17t075628255.png?imwidth=500" />

Ukraine's General Oleksandr Tarnavsky early on Saturday (Feb 17) said that the Ukrainian forces withdrew from the eastern town of Avdiivka, where the situation had considerably deteriorated in the past few days. The step was taken by Ukraine, hours after it signed the French security deal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-fraud-case-trump-ordered-to-pay-nearly-355-mn-he-is-barred-from-doing-business-in-state-for-3-yrs-691092">New York fraud case: Trump ordered to pay nearly $355 mn, he is barred from doing business in state for 3 years</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/17/412650-untitled-design.png?imwidth=500" />

Former United States president and current presidential hopeful Donald Trump has been ordered to pay $354.9 million to the state of New York in penalties for fraudulently overstating his net worth to dupe lenders, a judge ruled on Friday (Feb 16). According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Justice Arthur Engoron also banned Trump from serving as an officer or director of any New York corporation for three years.

<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">'From Ho-ho-ho to I love you': Here's how Putin critic Alexei Navalny described his last days in Arctic prison</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/17/412664-untitled-design-2024-02-17t084609413.png?imwidth=500" />

Russia's opposition leader and President Vladimir Putin's ardent critic Alexei Navalny had spent his last few weeks in a penal colony above the Arctic Circle before he reportedly died due to blood clotting.

Various&nbsp;rights groups as well as Western nations had widely condemned his 19-year prison sentence, which was seen by many as a punishment for trying to cross President Vladimir Putin.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-s-jaishankar-meets-canadian-fm-blinken-in-munich-to-discuss-bilateral-ties-691096">India: S Jaishankar meets Canadian FM, Blinken in Munich to discuss bilateral ties</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/17/412656-the-battle-for-kyiv-2024-02-17t084621236.jpg?imwidth=500" />

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in discussions with Canadian counterpart Melanie Joly during the Munich Security Conference on Friday (Feb 16).&nbsp;The focus of their dialogue encompassed the current state of bilateral relations and global dynamics, amid strains arising from allegations made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau against India regarding the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-successfully-launches-new-h3-rocket-following-setback-last-year-691091">Japan successfully launches new H3 rocket following setback last year</a>

<img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/17/412652-the-battle-for-kyiv-2024-02-17t082328227.jpg?imwidth=500" />

Japan's space agency achieved a significant milestone on Saturday (Feb 17) with the successful launch of the second test model of its latest flagship rocket, the H3.

This achievement comes as a welcome boost to Japan's space endeavours following the setback of last year's inaugural flight failure, reported&nbsp;Reuters.&nbsp;

In the latest, General Oleksandr Tarnavsky of Ukraine announced that Ukrainian forces had pulled out from the eastern town of Avdiivka. In other news, former US President Donald Trump has been ordered to pay $354.

In the latest, General Oleksandr Tarnavsky of Ukraine announced that Ukrainian forces had pulled out from the eastern town of Avdiivka. In other news, former US President Donald Trump has been ordered to pay $354.9 million to the state of New York in penalties. In India's foreign policy realm, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks with his Canadian counterpart and the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken. Click on the headlines to read more. Ukraine withdraws forces from Avdiivka, hours after signing French security deal Ukraine's General Oleksandr Tarnavsky early on Saturday (Feb 17) said that the Ukrainian forces withdrew from the eastern town of Avdiivka, where the situation had considerably deteriorated in the past few days. The step was taken by Ukraine, hours after it signed the French security deal. New York fraud case: Trump ordered to pay nearly $355 mn, he is barred from doing business in state for 3 years Former United States president and current presidential hopeful Donald Trump has been ordered to pay $354.9 million to the state of New York in penalties for fraudulently overstating his net worth to dupe lenders, a judge ruled on Friday (Feb 16). According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Justice Arthur Engoron also banned Trump from serving as an officer or director of any New York corporation for three years. 'From Ho-ho-ho to I love you': Here's how Putin critic Alexei Navalny described his last days in Arctic prison Russia's opposition leader and President Vladimir Putin's ardent critic Alexei Navalny had spent his last few weeks in a penal colony above the Arctic Circle before he reportedly died due to blood clotting. Various rights groups as well as Western nations had widely condemned his 19-year prison sentence, which was seen by many as a punishment for trying to cross President Vladimir Putin. India: S Jaishankar meets Canadian FM, Blinken in Munich to discuss bilateral ties India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar engaged in discussions with Canadian counterpart Melanie Joly during the Munich Security Conference on Friday (Feb 16). The focus of their dialogue encompassed the current state of bilateral relations and global dynamics, amid strains arising from allegations made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau against India regarding the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Japan successfully launches new H3 rocket following setback last year Japan's space agency achieved a significant milestone on Saturday (Feb 17) with the successful launch of the second test model of its latest flagship rocket, the H3. This achievement comes as a welcome boost to Japan's space endeavours following the setback of last year's inaugural flight failure, reported Reuters.

Morning news brief: Ukraine withdraws forces from Avdiivka, S Jaishankar in Munich, and more

ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) on Saturday (Feb 17) successfully launched&nbsp;INSAT-3DS satellite marking its second successful launch this year. In other news spokeswoman of Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny confirmed his death. Read this and more in Top 10 World News.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/isros-launches-insat-3ds-successfully-marking-second-achievement-this-year-691242">ISRO launches INSAT-3DS successfully marking second achievement this year</a>

ISRO's Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) was used for the launch that took place at 5:35 pm (IST) at Satish Dhawan Space Centre's Sriharikota range in southern India. INSAT-3DS has now been successfully placed in the intended orbit.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/17/412745-insat-3ds-launch.jpg?imwidth=640" />

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexey-navalny-was-murdered-russian-opposition-leaders-spokeswoman-confirms-reports-of-his-death-691208">‘Alexei Navalny was murdered,’ Russian leader’s spokeswoman confirms demise</a>

Alexei Navalny's spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh called for his body to be returned to the family "immediately".

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/17/412721-succession-2024-02-17t165241696.jpg?imwidth=256" />

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-rawalpindi-commissioner-arrested-after-claiming-13-loser-candidates-given-victory-691189">Pak: Top official resigns after claiming losing candidates ‘declared’ winners</a>

Rawalpindi Commissioner Liaquat Ali Chattha announced that he has resigned from his office after over a dozen losing candidates were declared winners in Feb 8 elections under his watch. Pakistan's election commission has rejected the allegations. 
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<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/17/412710-untitled-design-2024-02-17t154810801.png?imwidth=256" />

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-war-indias-jaishankar-says-israel-should-have-been-mindful-of-civilian-casualties-691255">Jaishankar says Israel should have been mindful of civilian casualties in Gaza</a>

Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing Munich security conference, the Indian foreign minister warned Israel that it should be mindful of civilian casualties and observe international humanitarian law in Gaza.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/17/412752-yearender-2023-16.jpg?imwidth=640" />

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-tributes-for-navalny-supporters-condemn-russia-hold-putin-accountable-for-his-death-691127">Alexei Navalny death: Over 170 supporters arrested in support rallies across Russia</a>

Alexei Navalny's death: Navalny supporters worldwide mourned his death, blaming Putin. Demonstrations in Europe and the US saw calls for justice.&nbsp;

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/17/412673-the-battle-for-kyiv-2024-02-17t102452802.jpg?imwidth=640" />

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-gaza-war-thousands-fleeing-rafah-as-israeli-military-campaign-intensifies-691224">Gaza war: Thousands fleeing Rafah as Israeli military campaign intensifies</a>

Israel says it will ensure the region is evacuated before it is targeted. However, experts say there is nowhere to go due to the vast devastation left behind.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/17/412731-yearender-2023-15.jpg?imwidth=640" />

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraines-battle-to-repel-russian-forces-held-back-by-zelensky-addresses-munich-security-conference-691173">Ukraine’s battle to repel Russian forces held back by...: Zelensky addresses Munich Security Conference</a>

Addressing the Munich Security Conference (MSC), President Zelensky said, "Feb 24 (when the war started) could have marked the end of the world we know. Every outbreak of war risks turning into a worldwide catastrophe."

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/17/412713-00034jm3a9.jpg?imwidth=1920" />

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/red-sea-attack-houthi-missile-strikes-india-bound-oil-tanker-691146">Red Sea attack: Houthi missile strikes India-bound oil tanker</a>

A Panamanian-flagged tanker, M/T Pollux, bound for India, was struck by a missile in the Red Sea, according to the US State Department.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/17/412686-the-battle-for-kyiv-2024-02-17t114142193.jpg?imwidth=640" />

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkish-gold-mine-stripped-of-licence-after-landslide-691270">Turkish gold mine stripped of licence after landslide</a>

Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar said earlier Saturday that six managers at the mine had been arrested Friday evening, and two others released with conditions.

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/17/412762-succession-2024-02-17t212219504.jpg?imwidth=640" />

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-tributes-for-navalny-supporters-condemn-russia-hold-putin-accountable-for-his-death-691127">Alexei Navalny death: Over 170 supporters arrested in support rallies across Russia</a>

Kremlin critics such as Navalny, Nemtsov, and Litvinenko have tragically met their demise through assassinations, suspicious deaths, or poisonings, reflecting the perilous risks of dissent in Russia. Their fates illuminate a pattern of suppression and impunity under Putin's regime, where opposition voices are silenced or they are eliminated. 
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<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2024/02/17/412693-the-battle-for-kyiv-2024-02-17t130805262.jpg?imwidth=640" />

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ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) on Saturday (Feb 17) successfully launched INSAT-3DS satellite marking its second successful launch this year. In other news spokeswoman of Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny confirmed his death.

ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) on Saturday (Feb 17) successfully launched INSAT-3DS satellite marking its second successful launch this year. In other news spokeswoman of Russian opposition figure Alexei Navalny confirmed his death. Read this and more in Top 10 World News. ISRO launches INSAT-3DS successfully marking second achievement this year ISRO's Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) was used for the launch that took place at 5:35 pm (IST) at Satish Dhawan Space Centre's Sriharikota range in southern India. INSAT-3DS has now been successfully placed in the intended orbit. ‘Alexei Navalny was murdered,’ Russian leader’s spokeswoman confirms demise Alexei Navalny's spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh called for his body to be returned to the family "immediately". Pak: Top official resigns after claiming losing candidates ‘declared’ winners Rawalpindi Commissioner Liaquat Ali Chattha announced that he has resigned from his office after over a dozen losing candidates were declared winners in Feb 8 elections under his watch. Pakistan's election commission has rejected the allegations. Jaishankar says Israel should have been mindful of civilian casualties in Gaza Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing Munich security conference, the Indian foreign minister warned Israel that it should be mindful of civilian casualties and observe international humanitarian law in Gaza. Alexei Navalny death: Over 170 supporters arrested in support rallies across Russia Alexei Navalny's death: Navalny supporters worldwide mourned his death, blaming Putin. Demonstrations in Europe and the US saw calls for justice. Gaza war: Thousands fleeing Rafah as Israeli military campaign intensifies Israel says it will ensure the region is evacuated before it is targeted. However, experts say there is nowhere to go due to the vast devastation left behind. Ukraine’s battle to repel Russian forces held back by...: Zelensky addresses Munich Security Conference Addressing the Munich Security Conference (MSC), President Zelensky said, "Feb 24 (when the war started) could have marked the end of the world we know. Every outbreak of war risks turning into a worldwide catastrophe." Red Sea attack: Houthi missile strikes India-bound oil tanker A Panamanian-flagged tanker, M/T Pollux, bound for India, was struck by a missile in the Red Sea, according to the US State Department. Turkish gold mine stripped of licence after landslide Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar said earlier Saturday that six managers at the mine had been arrested Friday evening, and two others released with conditions. Alexei Navalny death: Over 170 supporters arrested in support rallies across Russia Kremlin critics such as Navalny, Nemtsov, and Litvinenko have tragically met their demise through assassinations, suspicious deaths, or poisonings, reflecting the perilous risks of dissent in Russia. Their fates illuminate a pattern of suppression and impunity under Putin's regime, where opposition voices are silenced or they are eliminated.

Top 10 world news: ISRO satellite launch; Navalny spokeswoman confirms death; and more

U.S. President Joe Biden blames russian president Vladimir Putin for Alexei Navalny's death, saying he was "Not surprised" but "Outraged" by the opposition leader's passing. "We don't know exactly what happened, but there is no doubt that the death of Nalvany was a consequence of something that Putin and his thugs did," Biden said at the white house after russian prison officials said Navalny had died.

Biden: Putin and his thugs caused Navalny's death

&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

Alexei Navalny, the prominent critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has died in an Arctic Circle jail at the age of 47. Western leaders say Russia and Putin are to be blamed for Navalny's mysterious death. What really happened to Navalny?

Gravitas | Alexei Navalny Death: Western leaders point the finger at Putin

Russian jail authorities are now saying that the Russian Opposition leader Alexei Navalny has reportedly died in prison. One of the most prominent rivals of Russian President Vladimir Putin was serving a 19-year-long sentence on charges of extremism. To know more watch this interview with Journalist and Political commentator, Fred Weir.

Alexei Navalny dead in prison, says Russia | Navalny's team says not informed about his death

Russian jail authorities are now saying that the Russian Opposition leader Alexei Navalny has reportedly died in prison. One of the most prominent rivals of Russian President Vladimir Putin was serving a 19-year-long sentence on charges of extremism.

BREAKING: Alexei Navalny dead, Russian prison authorities confirm death | World News | WION

Alexei Navalny, the jailed Russian opposition leader, has been moved to a penal colony in the Arctic, his spokeswoman said on Monday. Navalny's whereabouts were not known for over two weeks.

Russia: Navalny shifted to remote prison ahead of President elections, moved to Arctic Penal Colony

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Dec 12) claimed that it did not know the whereabouts of Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny or anything about his current status.

It also rebuffed concerns by the United States over the Russian opposition leader's disappearance, dubbing it "unacceptable" and asking the United States to mind its own business.

"Here we are talking about one prisoner who, according to the law, was found guilty and is serving his sentence, and here we consider any intervention by anyone, including the United States of America, unacceptable and impossible," The Kremlin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said during a press briefing.

US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller on Monday had said that Washington was very much concerned about Navalny's wellbeing and that the Russian authorities were responsible for his disappearance.

Navalny's lawyers on Monday (Dec 11) said that they had lost all contact with the imprisoned Russian opposition leader and his whereabouts are unknown.

Kira Yarmysh, Navalny's spokesperson, said that staff at the IK-6 facility in Melekhovo had told Navalny's lawyer waiting outside that he was no longer among its inmates.

"Today, as on Friday, the lawyers tried to get to IK-6 and IK-7 — &nbsp;two colonies in the Vladimir region where Alexey Navalny might be. They have just been informed simultaneously in both colonies that he is not there. We still don't know where Alexey is," Yarmysh said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-opposition-leader-alexey-navalny-goes-missing-from-prison-668638">Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny goes missing from prison: Lawyers</a>

"Where they have taken him, they refuse to say," she added.

On Tuesday, Yarmysh took to social media platform X and wrote, "Today Alexei was again not brought to court to appear by video link, but now nobody is talking nonsense about an 'electricity accident'. An employee of penal colony-6 stated that Alexei had left their colony, but that he allegedly did not know where he had been transferred to."

<h2>Navalny's disappearance '0% coincidence, 100% direct political control,' says aide Volkov</h2>

Navalny aide Leonid Volkov in a posting on X said that the timing was "0% coincidence and 100% direct manual political control from the Kremlin."

He added: "It is no secret to Putin who his main opponent is in these 'elections'. And he wants to make sure that Navalny’s voice is not heard."

Earlier this month, Navalny was charged by Russian prosecutors under article 214 of the Kremlin's penal code, to which he had responded by saying, “I don’t even know whether to describe my latest news as sad, funny or absurd.”

He said that his charges were part of the Kremlin's desire to initiate a new criminal case against him every three months. Never before has a convict in solitary confinement for more than a year had such a rich social and political life, he added.

Alexei Navalny, 47, who is one of the most ardent opponents of Russian President Vladimir Putin, known for campaigning against official corruption and organizing major anti-Kremlin protests, was arrested in 2021 after he returned to Russia from Germany.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Dec 12) claimed that it did not know the whereabouts of Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny or anything about his current status. It also rebuffed concerns by the United States over the Russian opposition leader's disappearance, dubbing it "unacceptable" and asking the United States to mind its own business.

The Kremlin on Tuesday (Dec 12) claimed that it did not know the whereabouts of Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny or anything about his current status. It also rebuffed concerns by the United States over the Russian opposition leader's disappearance, dubbing it "unacceptable" and asking the United States to mind its own business. "Here we are talking about one prisoner who, according to the law, was found guilty and is serving his sentence, and here we consider any intervention by anyone, including the United States of America, unacceptable and impossible," The Kremlin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said during a press briefing. US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller on Monday had said that Washington was very much concerned about Navalny's wellbeing and that the Russian authorities were responsible for his disappearance. Navalny's lawyers on Monday (Dec 11) said that they had lost all contact with the imprisoned Russian opposition leader and his whereabouts are unknown. Kira Yarmysh, Navalny's spokesperson, said that staff at the IK-6 facility in Melekhovo had told Navalny's lawyer waiting outside that he was no longer among its inmates. "Today, as on Friday, the lawyers tried to get to IK-6 and IK-7 — two colonies in the Vladimir region where Alexey Navalny might be. They have just been informed simultaneously in both colonies that he is not there. We still don't know where Alexey is," Yarmysh said. Also read: Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny goes missing from prison: Lawyers "Where they have taken him, they refuse to say," she added. On Tuesday, Yarmysh took to social media platform X and wrote, "Today Alexei was again not brought to court to appear by video link, but now nobody is talking nonsense about an 'electricity accident'. An employee of penal colony-6 stated that Alexei had left their colony, but that he allegedly did not know where he had been transferred to." Navalny's disappearance '0% coincidence, 100% direct political control,' says aide Volkov Navalny aide Leonid Volkov in a posting on X said that the timing was "0% coincidence and 100% direct manual political control from the Kremlin." He added: "It is no secret to Putin who his main opponent is in these 'elections'. And he wants to make sure that Navalny’s voice is not heard." Earlier this month, Navalny was charged by Russian prosecutors under article 214 of the Kremlin's penal code, to which he had responded by saying, “I don’t even know whether to describe my latest news as sad, funny or absurd.” He said that his charges were part of the Kremlin's desire to initiate a new criminal case against him every three months. Never before has a convict in solitary confinement for more than a year had such a rich social and political life, he added. Alexei Navalny, 47, who is one of the most ardent opponents of Russian President Vladimir Putin, known for campaigning against official corruption and organizing major anti-Kremlin protests, was arrested in 2021 after he returned to Russia from Germany. (With inputs from agencies)

Kremlin says unaware of Navalny's whereabouts, rebuffs US concerns over his 'disappearance'

Russian prosecutors on Thursday (July 20) requested a jail sentence of 20 years for Putin-critic Alexei Navalny. He is already in jail. Navalny is the most prominent critic of the Russian government and has denounced Russia's "senseless war" in his last statement to the court.

The case is being heard in court when Russia is more than a year into its full-scale offensive against Ukraine. After the invasion began, there was an unprecedented crackdown on the Kremlin's critics, many of whom are now in jail.

Navalny has been accused of links with extremist elements. It is expected that a verdict over the case would come on August 4.

As the prosecutors' announcement came, the European Union added the chief of the Russian prison camp holding Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny to its sanctions list.

Gravitas: Why are Wagner mercenaries training near Poland?

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Navalny's trial has been held behind closed doors at the maximum security prison where he is jailed. The IK-6 penal colony, where Navalny is being held, is some 250 kilometres east of Russian capital Moscow.

Navalny (47), who has in past mobilised massive anti-Kremlin protests is now serving a nine-year prison sentence on embezzlement charges. His supporters see this as a punishment for Navalny's political work.

He was arrested in 2021 on his arrival in Moscow from Germany, where he had been recovering from a poisoning attack that he blamed on the Kremlin.

<h2>Navalny's health problems</h2>

Navalny has complained of health problems. He has also experienced major weight loss since being jailed in a strict regime penal colony. 
 
Prosecutors on Thursday asked for Navalny to serve his additional sentence in an even more restrictive, special regime prison.

Navalny faces charges of financing extremist activity, publicly inciting extremist activities and "rehabilitating the Nazi ideology," among other offences.&nbsp;

His team has said that while Navalny has been the target of multiple lawsuits, the present case is first formal politocal case against him.

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Moscow has cracked down on freedoms in Russia.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-starts-firing-cluster-munitions-against-russian-forces-amid-criticism-617861">Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism</a>

Russia is "floundering in a pool of either mud or blood, with broken bones, with a poor and robbed population, and around it lie tens of thousands of people killed in the most stupid and senseless war of the 21st century," Navalny said.&nbsp;

Media reports say that thousands of Russians have been detained because they held protests against the Ukraine invasion. Most high-profile activists still in Russia like Vladimir Kara-Murza and Ilya Yashin are behind bars.

Navalny too has made his voice against Ukraine offensive heard from behind the bars. He communicates with the outside world through his legal team.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Russian prosecutors on Thursday (July 20) requested a jail sentence of 20 years for Putin-critic Alexei Navalny. He is already in jail. Navalny is the most prominent critic of the Russian government and has denounced Russia's "senseless war" in his last statement to the court.

Russian prosecutors on Thursday (July 20) requested a jail sentence of 20 years for Putin-critic Alexei Navalny. He is already in jail. Navalny is the most prominent critic of the Russian government and has denounced Russia's "senseless war" in his last statement to the court. The case is being heard in court when Russia is more than a year into its full-scale offensive against Ukraine. After the invasion began, there was an unprecedented crackdown on the Kremlin's critics, many of whom are now in jail. Navalny has been accused of links with extremist elements. It is expected that a verdict over the case would come on August 4. As the prosecutors' announcement came, the European Union added the chief of the Russian prison camp holding Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny to its sanctions list. Gravitas: Why are Wagner mercenaries training near Poland? × Navalny's trial has been held behind closed doors at the maximum security prison where he is jailed. The IK-6 penal colony, where Navalny is being held, is some 250 kilometres east of Russian capital Moscow. Navalny (47), who has in past mobilised massive anti-Kremlin protests is now serving a nine-year prison sentence on embezzlement charges. His supporters see this as a punishment for Navalny's political work. He was arrested in 2021 on his arrival in Moscow from Germany, where he had been recovering from a poisoning attack that he blamed on the Kremlin. Navalny's health problems Navalny has complained of health problems. He has also experienced major weight loss since being jailed in a strict regime penal colony. Prosecutors on Thursday asked for Navalny to serve his additional sentence in an even more restrictive, special regime prison. Navalny faces charges of financing extremist activity, publicly inciting extremist activities and "rehabilitating the Nazi ideology," among other offences. His team has said that while Navalny has been the target of multiple lawsuits, the present case is first formal politocal case against him. Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Moscow has cracked down on freedoms in Russia. Also Read | Ukraine starts using cluster munitions against Russian forces amid criticism Russia is "floundering in a pool of either mud or blood, with broken bones, with a poor and robbed population, and around it lie tens of thousands of people killed in the most stupid and senseless war of the 21st century," Navalny said. Media reports say that thousands of Russians have been detained because they held protests against the Ukraine invasion. Most high-profile activists still in Russia like Vladimir Kara-Murza and Ilya Yashin are behind bars. Navalny too has made his voice against Ukraine offensive heard from behind the bars. He communicates with the outside world through his legal team. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Russia wants Kremlin critic Navalny in jail for 20 years

Western nations, as per the US ambassador to the global chemical weapons body Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) are looking at taking measures against Russia over its alleged nerve agent attacks.

Tensions at the OPCW have as per AFP soared since the global chemical weapons body's investigators found that Novichok, a Soviet-era nerve agent, was used against Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in 2020. The nerve agent was also found to have been used against a former Russian spy in England in 2018.

Speaking to news agency AFP on Monday, US envoy Joseph Manso said that "the United States and many countries are concerned about Russian non-compliance, and Russian non-compliance is at the heart of the problems at the OPCW."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-chief-vows-his-forces-will-leave-bakhmut-by-june-1-595235">Russia-Ukraine | Wagner chief vows his forces will handover Bakhmut to Russian army by June 1</a>

"We're going to keep looking for what the right tools are to bring Russia into compliance. It is not something we're going to forget about," he added.

Manso accused Moscow of being responsible for the recent failure of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to agree on a new five-year plan and said that Russia's non-compliance lies at the core of the problems within the OPCW.&nbsp;

During the recent OPCW meeting held last week, Russia accused the West of "politicising" the organisation. The five-yearly meeting was held to assess progress on a 1997 agreement to eradicate chemical weapons.&nbsp;

The meeting failed to agree on a final document that would have set out its priorities for the next five years.

The US envoy pinned the blame on Moscow and its allies Syria, Iran and China. "Our Russian colleagues were not so flexible," Manso said.

He emphasised that the issue of Russian non-compliance will be a significant topic of discussion during the upcoming meetings of the organisation's policy-making body in July and the annual meeting of its 193 member states at the end of the year.&nbsp;

When asked about potential measures against Russia, such as suspending Moscow's voting rights at the OPCW, the US envoy said that he was "not going to specifically include anything and I'm not going to specifically exclude anything".

He suggested that sanctioning Russia could be an option "that may or may not work."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/climate-change-claimed-hundreds-of-thousands-of-lives-in-india-un-595232">Climate change, extreme weather have led to hundreds of thousands of deaths in India: UN</a>

"One approach would be to sanction the Russians. That may or may not work... It's an idea, but it's not US government policy," he said.

However, he expressed optimism about the "bright future" of the OPCW and emphasised on the organisation's role in preventing the re-emergence of chemical weapons and highlighting the upcoming milestone of the US completing the destruction of its chemical weapons stockpiles in September.

Nevertheless, despite the progress in eliminating declared toxic arms worldwide, Manso expressed concerns about the potential use of chemical weapons by Russia in Ukraine.&nbsp;He also said that Syria's readmission to the Arab League did not change the need for "accountability" for its chemical weapons use.

Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny and Novichok

Russia has long denied any involvement in the poisoning of Alexei Navalny.

Navalny, who happens to be an outspoken critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, had to be put in an induced coma after the deadly chemical attack. The OPCW found a cholinesterase inhibitor from the Novichok group in Navalny's blood, urine, skin samples and his water bottle.

Moscow also skirts responsibility in the Novichok attack on former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter. The 2018 attack that took place in the English town of Salisbury left one woman dead.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Western nations, as per the US ambassador to the global chemical weapons body Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) are looking at taking measures against Russia over its alleged nerve agent attacks.

Western nations, as per the US ambassador to the global chemical weapons body Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) are looking at taking measures against Russia over its alleged nerve agent attacks. Tensions at the OPCW have as per AFP soared since the global chemical weapons body's investigators found that Novichok, a Soviet-era nerve agent, was used against Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in 2020. The nerve agent was also found to have been used against a former Russian spy in England in 2018. Speaking to news agency AFP on Monday, US envoy Joseph Manso said that "the United States and many countries are concerned about Russian non-compliance, and Russian non-compliance is at the heart of the problems at the OPCW." Also read | Russia-Ukraine | Wagner chief vows his forces will handover Bakhmut to Russian army by June 1 "We're going to keep looking for what the right tools are to bring Russia into compliance. It is not something we're going to forget about," he added. Manso accused Moscow of being responsible for the recent failure of the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) to agree on a new five-year plan and said that Russia's non-compliance lies at the core of the problems within the OPCW. During the recent OPCW meeting held last week, Russia accused the West of "politicising" the organisation. The five-yearly meeting was held to assess progress on a 1997 agreement to eradicate chemical weapons. The meeting failed to agree on a final document that would have set out its priorities for the next five years. The US envoy pinned the blame on Moscow and its allies Syria, Iran and China. "Our Russian colleagues were not so flexible," Manso said. He emphasised that the issue of Russian non-compliance will be a significant topic of discussion during the upcoming meetings of the organisation's policy-making body in July and the annual meeting of its 193 member states at the end of the year. When asked about potential measures against Russia, such as suspending Moscow's voting rights at the OPCW, the US envoy said that he was "not going to specifically include anything and I'm not going to specifically exclude anything". He suggested that sanctioning Russia could be an option "that may or may not work." Also read | Climate change, extreme weather have led to hundreds of thousands of deaths in India: UN "One approach would be to sanction the Russians. That may or may not work... It's an idea, but it's not US government policy," he said. However, he expressed optimism about the "bright future" of the OPCW and emphasised on the organisation's role in preventing the re-emergence of chemical weapons and highlighting the upcoming milestone of the US completing the destruction of its chemical weapons stockpiles in September. Nevertheless, despite the progress in eliminating declared toxic arms worldwide, Manso expressed concerns about the potential use of chemical weapons by Russia in Ukraine. He also said that Syria's readmission to the Arab League did not change the need for "accountability" for its chemical weapons use. Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny and Novichok Russia has long denied any involvement in the poisoning of Alexei Navalny. Navalny, who happens to be an outspoken critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, had to be put in an induced coma after the deadly chemical attack. The OPCW found a cholinesterase inhibitor from the Novichok group in Navalny's blood, urine, skin samples and his water bottle. Moscow also skirts responsibility in the Novichok attack on former Russian spy Sergei Skripal and his daughter. The 2018 attack that took place in the English town of Salisbury left one woman dead. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Western powers considering action on Russia over its chemical weapon use: US ambassador to OPCW

Imprisoned Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny said Wednesday he was “terribly glad” that a film detailing his poisoning and political activism won the Oscar for best documentary feature.

In a series of tweets that appeared on his account on Wednesday, the politician congratulated director Daniel Roher and others involved in the making of Navalny, as well as his wife Yulia and his allies in the Anti-Corruption Foundation.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-oscars-2023-full-list-of-winners-571246">Oscars 2023 Full Winners List: Everything Everywhere All At Once leads with 7 wins</a>

“I am, of course, terribly glad, but while rejoicing, I try not to forget that it wasn’t me who won the Oscar after all,” Navalny said.

The documentary portrays Navalny’s career of fighting official corruption, his near-fatal poisoning with a nerve agent in 2020 that he blames on the Kremlin, his five-month recuperation in Germany, and his 2021 return to Moscow, where he was immediately taken into custody at the airport. He was later sentenced to 2 1/2 years in prison and last year was convicted of other charges and given another nine-year term.

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Navalny has faced unrelenting pressure from authorities. He spent several weeks in isolation in a tiny “punishment cell” and last month was placed in a restricted housing unit for six months. He is effectively deprived of phone calls or visits from his family, while being apparently allowed to write letters or have his lawyers visit occasionally.

In the tweets, Navalny confirmed Wednesday that he learned about the Oscar while attending a court hearing via video link from his prison. He said his lawyer tried to break the news to him by placing a piece of paper in front of a camera, but Navalny couldn’t see what was written on it, so the attorney had to say it out loud — “Your film won an Oscar.”

“I had a very strange feeling at that moment,” the politician said. “It was as if those words didn’t even belong in this world, but, on the other hand, everything here is so weird and crazy that it feels like that’s the only world they belong in.”

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Imprisoned Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny said Wednesday he was “terribly glad” that a film detailing his poisoning and political activism won the Oscar for best documentary feature.

Imprisoned Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny said Wednesday he was “terribly glad” that a film detailing his poisoning and political activism won the Oscar for best documentary feature. In a series of tweets that appeared on his account on Wednesday, the politician congratulated director Daniel Roher and others involved in the making of Navalny, as well as his wife Yulia and his allies in the Anti-Corruption Foundation. Also Read: Oscars 2023 Full Winners List: Everything Everywhere All At Once leads with 7 wins “I am, of course, terribly glad, but while rejoicing, I try not to forget that it wasn’t me who won the Oscar after all,” Navalny said. The documentary portrays Navalny’s career of fighting official corruption, his near-fatal poisoning with a nerve agent in 2020 that he blames on the Kremlin, his five-month recuperation in Germany, and his 2021 return to Moscow, where he was immediately taken into custody at the airport. He was later sentenced to 2 1/2 years in prison and last year was convicted of other charges and given another nine-year term. Navalny has faced unrelenting pressure from authorities. He spent several weeks in isolation in a tiny “punishment cell” and last month was placed in a restricted housing unit for six months. He is effectively deprived of phone calls or visits from his family, while being apparently allowed to write letters or have his lawyers visit occasionally. In the tweets, Navalny confirmed Wednesday that he learned about the Oscar while attending a court hearing via video link from his prison. He said his lawyer tried to break the news to him by placing a piece of paper in front of a camera, but Navalny couldn’t see what was written on it, so the attorney had to say it out loud — “Your film won an Oscar.” “I had a very strange feeling at that moment,” the politician said. “It was as if those words didn’t even belong in this world, but, on the other hand, everything here is so weird and crazy that it feels like that’s the only world they belong in.” WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Alexei Navalny 'terribly glad' documentary about his poisoning won Oscar

India's only entry to BAFTA Film Awards 2023, Shaunak Sen's All That Breathes&nbsp;lost out to a documentary on Alexei Navalny, a staunch critic of President Putin, in the Best Documentary category on Sunday night. The BAFTAs were held in London. The annual awards often termed as 'British Oscars' celebrate and honour the best of British talent in cinema as well as in world cinema.&nbsp; 
 
The documentary titled Navalny talks of the dissident's poisoning and the subsequent investigation that followed in the case. The win at BAFTA, which is a precursor to the Oscars, has made the film a strong contender for the upcoming awards in Hollywood.&nbsp;

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The award for Documentary goes to Navalny <a href="https://twitter.com/NavalnyDoc?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@navalnydoc</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/Dogwoof?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@dogwoof</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EEBAFTAs?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EEBAFTAs</a> <a href="https://t.co/7L1a82XTaC">pic.twitter.com/7L1a82XTaC</a>
— BAFTA (@BAFTA) <a href="https://twitter.com/BAFTA/status/1627407020625108992?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2023</a></blockquote>
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At the Oscars this year, Shaunak Sen's All That Breathes is one of the prominent nominees in the Best Documentary category. The film has already won multiple awards at various film festivals in 2022 including one at Cannes. The film highlights the extraordinary work of two brothers based in Delhi who take care of injured birds of prey out of a makeshift hospital. The film also talks about the city's toxic environment.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-bafta-film-awards-2023-checkout-the-full-list-of-winners-563749">BAFTA Film awards 2023: Checkout the full list of winners</a> 
 
The film, by Shaunak Sen, has been described as "beautiful and meditative" by those who have watched it. 
 
All That Breathes'&nbsp;Oscar nod marks the second time India has been nominated in the Best Documentary Feature category. In 2022 Writing with Fire by Rintu Thomas and Sushmit Ghosh became the first documentary from Inda to earn a nomination in this category.&nbsp; 
 
All That Breathes is not the only Indian film at the Oscars this year. The Elephant Whisperer has been nominated in the Best Documentary Short category while the smash hit song Naatu Naatu&nbsp;from RRR has scored a Best Original Song nomination. The Oscars will be held in Los Angeles on March 12.&nbsp;

India's only entry to BAFTA Film Awards 2023, Shaunak Sen's All That Breathes lost out to a documentary on Alexei Navalny, a staunch critic of President Putin, in the Best Documentary category on Sunday night.

India's only entry to BAFTA Film Awards 2023, Shaunak Sen's All That Breathes lost out to a documentary on Alexei Navalny, a staunch critic of President Putin, in the Best Documentary category on Sunday night. The BAFTAs were held in London. The annual awards often termed as 'British Oscars' celebrate and honour the best of British talent in cinema as well as in world cinema. The documentary titled Navalny talks of the dissident's poisoning and the subsequent investigation that followed in the case. The win at BAFTA, which is a precursor to the Oscars, has made the film a strong contender for the upcoming awards in Hollywood. The award for Documentary goes to Navalny @navalnydoc @dogwoof #EEBAFTAs pic.twitter.com/7L1a82XTaC — BAFTA (@BAFTA) February 19, 2023 × At the Oscars this year, Shaunak Sen's All That Breathes is one of the prominent nominees in the Best Documentary category. The film has already won multiple awards at various film festivals in 2022 including one at Cannes. The film highlights the extraordinary work of two brothers based in Delhi who take care of injured birds of prey out of a makeshift hospital. The film also talks about the city's toxic environment. BAFTA Film awards 2023: Checkout the full list of winners The film, by Shaunak Sen, has been described as "beautiful and meditative" by those who have watched it. All That Breathes' Oscar nod marks the second time India has been nominated in the Best Documentary Feature category. In 2022 Writing with Fire by Rintu Thomas and Sushmit Ghosh became the first documentary from Inda to earn a nomination in this category. All That Breathes is not the only Indian film at the Oscars this year. The Elephant Whisperer has been nominated in the Best Documentary Short category while the smash hit song Naatu Naatu from RRR has scored a Best Original Song nomination. The Oscars will be held in Los Angeles on March 12.

BAFTAs 2023: India's All That Breathes loses to Navalny in Best Documentary category

Bulgarian investigative journalist Christo Grozev, a long-time Kremlin critic, on Friday said he had been "banned" from attending the upcoming BAFTA awards in London, where a documentary about dissident Alexei Navalny is nominated.&nbsp;Grozev, who is credited with having helped reveal the plot to kill Navalny, appears in the documentary. But on Friday, he tweeted that he had been "surprised to discover that my whole family and I have all been banned by British police from attending this weekend's BAFTA awards". Police had deemed them a "public security risk", he added. 
 
A statement from the Metropolitan Police said the force could not comment on individual cases, but that "the fact that some journalists face the hostile intentions of foreign states whilst in the UK is a reality that we are absolutely concerned with".

It could not ban individuals from attending private events, but had advised organisers of the showpiece British film awards, the Met added. "We recognise that our advice can mean organisers have difficult choices to make when deciding how best to mitigate any risks to the security of their event, and we are grateful for the ongoing engagement of BAFTA." 
 
"BAFTA said the safety of its guests and staff was a priority, adding that it has "robust and appropriate security arrangements in place every year". Grozev, who is the lead Russia investigator for the award-winning investigative website Bellingcat, tweeted that "moments like this show the growing dangers to independent journalists around the world". 
 
"These dangers don't stem just from murderous dictators, but also from having journalists' voices hushed – instead of amplified – by the civilised world they are trying to serve," he added. 
 
Navalny, the most prominent opponent of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has been held for the past two years at a maximum-security prison outside Moscow after an embezzlement conviction. Before that, however, he was poisoned with the Soviet-made nerve agent Novichok on a trip to Siberia in 2020 and has accused Putin of being behind the attack. 
 
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Bulgarian investigative journalist Christo Grozev, a long-time Kremlin critic, on Friday said he had been "banned" from attending the upcoming BAFTA awards in London, where a documentary about dissident Alexei Navalny is nominated.

Bulgarian investigative journalist Christo Grozev, a long-time Kremlin critic, on Friday said he had been "banned" from attending the upcoming BAFTA awards in London, where a documentary about dissident Alexei Navalny is nominated. Grozev, who is credited with having helped reveal the plot to kill Navalny, appears in the documentary. But on Friday, he tweeted that he had been "surprised to discover that my whole family and I have all been banned by British police from attending this weekend's BAFTA awards". Police had deemed them a "public security risk", he added. A statement from the Metropolitan Police said the force could not comment on individual cases, but that "the fact that some journalists face the hostile intentions of foreign states whilst in the UK is a reality that we are absolutely concerned with". It could not ban individuals from attending private events, but had advised organisers of the showpiece British film awards, the Met added. "We recognise that our advice can mean organisers have difficult choices to make when deciding how best to mitigate any risks to the security of their event, and we are grateful for the ongoing engagement of BAFTA." "BAFTA said the safety of its guests and staff was a priority, adding that it has "robust and appropriate security arrangements in place every year". Grozev, who is the lead Russia investigator for the award-winning investigative website Bellingcat, tweeted that "moments like this show the growing dangers to independent journalists around the world". "These dangers don't stem just from murderous dictators, but also from having journalists' voices hushed – instead of amplified – by the civilised world they are trying to serve," he added. Navalny, the most prominent opponent of Russian President Vladimir Putin, has been held for the past two years at a maximum-security prison outside Moscow after an embezzlement conviction. Before that, however, he was poisoned with the Soviet-made nerve agent Novichok on a trip to Siberia in 2020 and has accused Putin of being behind the attack. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Bulgarian journalist, a Kremlin critic, banned from BAFTA awards in London over safety fears

Investigators in Russia have opened a criminal probe against a pregnant city councillor in Siberia. Helga Pirogova, the councillor is one of the last allies of jailed Kremlin-critic Alexei Navalny, who are still in the country. The investigative committee says proceedings have been launched over spread of false information about the Russian army.

Pirogova is independent member of the city council in Novosibirsk, third largest city in Russia.&nbsp;

The 33-year-old has spoken against Russia's military intervention in Ukraine. If she is convicted of charges against her, she faces up to three years in prison. According to her supporters, she is in her fourth month of pregnancy.

She was briefly detained on Thursday.

"They need an internal enemy that they can easily fight," she told AFP on Friday.

Asked how she felt, she said: "I'd like to avoid this but what can you do."&nbsp;

When Pirogova took to Twitter in July to comment on a report about funerals of troops killed in Ukraine, she was accused of posting 'false information' by the investigators.&nbsp;

She said she wanted to "revive" the troops to punish them for their role in Moscow's offensive and then "let them go back to their graves."&nbsp;

Later, she deleted her tweet calling it "too emotional"

She said she wanted to draw attention to the fact that Russians in some provinces were so poor that they exclaimed on elaborate funeral arrangements made rather rather than mourning the dead.

"You can invite half the village!" she said in a Facebook post this week.&nbsp;

In March, Pirogova caused an uproar when she turned up at a council meeting wearing a blue shirt and a crown of yellow flowers -- the colours of the Ukrainian flag.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Investigators in Russia have opened a criminal probe against a pregnant city councillor in Siberia. Helga Pirogova, the councillor is one of the last allies of jailed Kremlin-critic Alexei Navalny, who are still in the country.

Investigators in Russia have opened a criminal probe against a pregnant city councillor in Siberia. Helga Pirogova, the councillor is one of the last allies of jailed Kremlin-critic Alexei Navalny, who are still in the country. The investigative committee says proceedings have been launched over spread of false information about the Russian army. Pirogova is independent member of the city council in Novosibirsk, third largest city in Russia. The 33-year-old has spoken against Russia's military intervention in Ukraine. If she is convicted of charges against her, she faces up to three years in prison. According to her supporters, she is in her fourth month of pregnancy. She was briefly detained on Thursday. "They need an internal enemy that they can easily fight," she told AFP on Friday. Asked how she felt, she said: "I'd like to avoid this but what can you do." When Pirogova took to Twitter in July to comment on a report about funerals of troops killed in Ukraine, she was accused of posting 'false information' by the investigators. She said she wanted to "revive" the troops to punish them for their role in Moscow's offensive and then "let them go back to their graves." Later, she deleted her tweet calling it "too emotional" She said she wanted to draw attention to the fact that Russians in some provinces were so poor that they exclaimed on elaborate funeral arrangements made rather rather than mourning the dead. "You can invite half the village!" she said in a Facebook post this week. In March, Pirogova caused an uproar when she turned up at a council meeting wearing a blue shirt and a crown of yellow flowers -- the colours of the Ukrainian flag. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Criminal proceedings launched against pregnant Russian councillor, a Navalny ally

Jailed Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny has been transferred from his prison colony to a stricter colony. This is as per allies who have expressed concerns over his safety.

Kremlin critic Navalny moved to stricter colony, allies express safety concerns

Russian&nbsp;opposition leader Alexei Navalny has been abruptly transferred from the prison where he is serving an 11.5&nbsp;year sentence to an undisclosed location, nearly two years since he was poisoned with what the West said was a nerve agent.

Navalny, by far Russia's most prominent opposition leader, casts President Vladimir Putin's Russia as a dystopian state run by thieves and criminals where wrong is cast as right and judges are in fact representatives of a doomed elite.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-destroys-last-bridge-out-of-key-east-ukraine-city-487958">Russia destroys last bridge out of key east Ukraine city</a>

Navalny's top aide informed about the transfer on the Telegram app on Tuesday.

Just last month, Navalny lambasted Putin via video link in a&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;court, casting the Kremlin chief as a madman who started a "stupid war" that was butchering the innocent people of both Ukraine and Russia.

When his lawyer arrived at Correctional Colony No. 2, a prison camp in Pokrov, 119 kilometres (74 miles) east of Moscow, he was told: "There is no such convict here," according to Navalny's chief of staff Leonid Volkov.

"Where Alexei is now, and which colony he is being taken to, we don't know," Volkov said in a statement on Telegram.

Navalny's spokeswoman said there was speculation that he was being taken to the high-security penal colony IK-6 Melekhovo near Vladimir, about 250 km (155 miles) east of Moscow.

Russia's prison service could not be reached for immediate comment.

Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russia cuts off Severodonetsk as three connecting bridges were destroyed

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"The problem with his transfer to another colony is not only that the high-security colony is much scarier: it is more that we don't know where Alexei is," his spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh said.

"He is one-to-one with the system that has already tried to kill him."

He earned admiration from the disparate&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;opposition for voluntarily returning to Russia in 2021 from Germany where he underwent treatment for what Western laboratory tests showed was an attempt to poison him with a nerve agent in Siberia.

On his return he was jailed for parole violations. Russia denies Navalny's claims that Russia's secret police poisoned him with Novichok.

On March 24, Navalny was sentenced to a further nine years in prison for fraud and contempt of court. The opposition leader says the charges against him are fabricated and aimed at thwarting his political ambitions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wikipedia-fights-russian-order-to-remove-ukraine-war-information-488088">Wikipedia fights Russian order to remove Ukraine war information</a>

The judge ordered that Navalny be transferred to a maximum-security prison, where his rights to visits and correspondence will be reduced.

Navalny's political network has been largely dismantled since his jailing, having been banned as an "extremist" organisation. Senior aides and organisers have either been jailed or forced into exile.

Navalny said two weeks ago that he had been charged in a new criminal case with creating an extremist organisation and inciting hatred towards the authorities, offences that carry a maximum jail term of 15 more years.

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Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has been abruptly transferred from the prison where he is serving an 11.5 year sentence to an undisclosed location, nearly two years since he was poisoned with what the West said was a nerve agent.

Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has been abruptly transferred from the prison where he is serving an 11.5 year sentence to an undisclosed location, nearly two years since he was poisoned with what the West said was a nerve agent. Navalny, by far Russia's most prominent opposition leader, casts President Vladimir Putin's Russia as a dystopian state run by thieves and criminals where wrong is cast as right and judges are in fact representatives of a doomed elite. Also read | Russia destroys last bridge out of key east Ukraine city Navalny's top aide informed about the transfer on the Telegram app on Tuesday. Just last month, Navalny lambasted Putin via video link in a Russian court, casting the Kremlin chief as a madman who started a "stupid war" that was butchering the innocent people of both Ukraine and Russia. When his lawyer arrived at Correctional Colony No. 2, a prison camp in Pokrov, 119 kilometres (74 miles) east of Moscow, he was told: "There is no such convict here," according to Navalny's chief of staff Leonid Volkov. "Where Alexei is now, and which colony he is being taken to, we don't know," Volkov said in a statement on Telegram. Navalny's spokeswoman said there was speculation that he was being taken to the high-security penal colony IK-6 Melekhovo near Vladimir, about 250 km (155 miles) east of Moscow. Russia's prison service could not be reached for immediate comment. Watch | Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Russia cuts off Severodonetsk as three connecting bridges were destroyed "The problem with his transfer to another colony is not only that the high-security colony is much scarier: it is more that we don't know where Alexei is," his spokeswoman Kira Yarmysh said. "He is one-to-one with the system that has already tried to kill him." He earned admiration from the disparate Russian opposition for voluntarily returning to Russia in 2021 from Germany where he underwent treatment for what Western laboratory tests showed was an attempt to poison him with a nerve agent in Siberia. On his return he was jailed for parole violations. Russia denies Navalny's claims that Russia's secret police poisoned him with Novichok. On March 24, Navalny was sentenced to a further nine years in prison for fraud and contempt of court. The opposition leader says the charges against him are fabricated and aimed at thwarting his political ambitions. Also read | Wikipedia fights Russian order to remove Ukraine war information The judge ordered that Navalny be transferred to a maximum-security prison, where his rights to visits and correspondence will be reduced. Navalny's political network has been largely dismantled since his jailing, having been banned as an "extremist" organisation. Senior aides and organisers have either been jailed or forced into exile. Navalny said two weeks ago that he had been charged in a new criminal case with creating an extremist organisation and inciting hatred towards the authorities, offences that carry a maximum jail term of 15 more years. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Jailed Russian opposition leader Navalny moved to undisclosed location

More than 4,000 people detained at anti-war protests in Russia

Jailed Kremlin-critic Alexei Navalny's team on Monday appealed Russians to take up civil obedience campaign to protest Russian invasion of Ukraine.

"Putin declared war on Ukraine and is trying to make everyone think that Ukraine was attacked by Russia, that is, by all of us. But that's not right," the Navalny team wrote on its Twitter account.

"We must show that we do not support the war. We call on Russians to show civil disobedience. Do not be silent."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-shelling-in-ukraines-kharkiv-violates-laws-of-war-european-union-457796">Russian shelling in Ukraine's Kharkiv 'violates laws of war': European Union</a>

Navalny is most prominent of opposition leaders who fiercely criticises Russian President Vladimir Putin. He was jailed last year after returning to Germany post recovery from a poisoning attempt. Laboratory tests had revealed that it was Novichok, a Soviet-era nerve agent. Navalny had accused Putin of trying to kill him.

Russia denied carrying out such an attack.

Since then, authorities have clamped down even more tightly on his movement, and key figures have fled into exile after being designated by the authorities as "foreign agents".

The OVD-Info group which monitors protests and arrests in Russia said 6,006 people had so far been arrested for anti-war demonstrations since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb.27 in what Putin said was a special operation to demilitarise and "denazify" the country. Ukraine and the West have dismissed that justification as baseless propaganda.

(With inputs from agencies)

Jailed Kremlin-critic Alexei Navalny's team on Monday appealed Russians to take up civil obedience campaign to protest Russian invasion of Ukraine. "Putin declared war on Ukraine and is trying to make everyone think that Ukraine was attacked by Russia, that is, by all of us.

Jailed Kremlin-critic Alexei Navalny's team on Monday appealed Russians to take up civil obedience campaign to protest Russian invasion of Ukraine. "Putin declared war on Ukraine and is trying to make everyone think that Ukraine was attacked by Russia, that is, by all of us. But that's not right," the Navalny team wrote on its Twitter account. "We must show that we do not support the war. We call on Russians to show civil disobedience. Do not be silent." Also Read | Russian shelling in Ukraine's Kharkiv 'violates laws of war': European Union Navalny is most prominent of opposition leaders who fiercely criticises Russian President Vladimir Putin. He was jailed last year after returning to Germany post recovery from a poisoning attempt. Laboratory tests had revealed that it was Novichok, a Soviet-era nerve agent. Navalny had accused Putin of trying to kill him. Russia denied carrying out such an attack. Since then, authorities have clamped down even more tightly on his movement, and key figures have fled into exile after being designated by the authorities as "foreign agents". The OVD-Info group which monitors protests and arrests in Russia said 6,006 people had so far been arrested for anti-war demonstrations since Russia invaded Ukraine on Feb.27 in what Putin said was a special operation to demilitarise and "denazify" the country. Ukraine and the West have dismissed that justification as baseless propaganda. (With inputs from agencies)

Alexei Navalny's team calls for civil disobedience to protest Ukraine invasion

Trouble continues for kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, fresh trial and fraud case against him began on Tuesday, if proven, this can extend his jail term by over a decade.

Russia files new charges against Alexei Navalny

A court in Moscow said on Tuesday that it will begin hearing of two cases against Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny next week. If convicted in these cases, Navalny could see his prison sentence extended by more than 10 years. Navalany is currently in jail.

He was jailed last year. Navalny, most vocal domestic critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin has survived a poisoning attempt last year. He blames Russian government for the attack.

The Moscow Lefortovsky district court said it will hold preliminary hearings on charges of fraud and contempt of court against Navalny on February 15.&nbsp;

The fraud case was launched in December 2020, while Navalny, 45, was recovering in Germany after narrowly surviving a nerve agent poisoning.&nbsp;

Investigators accuse Navalny of stealing for personal use more than $4.7 million (4.1 million euros) of donations that were given to his organisations. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.&nbsp;

Navalny also faces up to six months in prison for contempt of court during one of his hearings last year when he was jailed for more than two years on old fraud charges.&nbsp;

He is currently serving his sentence in a penal colony outside Moscow.&nbsp;

Navalny will not be brought to the Moscow court and the hearings will be head in his prison, Navalny's lawyer Olga Mikhailova told the TASS news agency. &nbsp;

Navalny's poisoning and arrest sparked widespread condemnation abroad as well as sanctions from Western capitals.

After his arrest, Navalny's organisations were declared "extremist" and shuttered, while many key aides fled Russia fearing prosecution.&nbsp;

Last year, investigators launched a new extremism probe against Navalny that could see the opposition leader face up to 10 more years in jail.

(With inputs from agencies)

A court in Moscow said on Tuesday that it will begin hearing of two cases against Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny next week. If convicted in these cases, Navalny could see his prison sentence extended by more than 10 years.

A court in Moscow said on Tuesday that it will begin hearing of two cases against Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny next week. If convicted in these cases, Navalny could see his prison sentence extended by more than 10 years. Navalany is currently in jail. He was jailed last year. Navalny, most vocal domestic critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin has survived a poisoning attempt last year. He blames Russian government for the attack. The Moscow Lefortovsky district court said it will hold preliminary hearings on charges of fraud and contempt of court against Navalny on February 15. The fraud case was launched in December 2020, while Navalny, 45, was recovering in Germany after narrowly surviving a nerve agent poisoning. Investigators accuse Navalny of stealing for personal use more than $4.7 million (4.1 million euros) of donations that were given to his organisations. The charges carry a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. Navalny also faces up to six months in prison for contempt of court during one of his hearings last year when he was jailed for more than two years on old fraud charges. He is currently serving his sentence in a penal colony outside Moscow. Navalny will not be brought to the Moscow court and the hearings will be head in his prison, Navalny's lawyer Olga Mikhailova told the TASS news agency. Navalny's poisoning and arrest sparked widespread condemnation abroad as well as sanctions from Western capitals. After his arrest, Navalny's organisations were declared "extremist" and shuttered, while many key aides fled Russia fearing prosecution. Last year, investigators launched a new extremism probe against Navalny that could see the opposition leader face up to 10 more years in jail. (With inputs from agencies)

Hearing on fresh criminal charges against Alexei Navalny to start next week

Alexei Navalny, the fiercest critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Monday that he did not regret returning to Russia. Navalny was detained in a Moscow airport on his return to Russia from Germany on January 17 last year, ushering in a months-long crackdown that has seen his most prominent allies imprisoned or exiled.

"I don't regret it for a second," Navalny wrote in a post on Instagram from a penal colony outside Moscow.

"Having served my first year in prison, I want to tell everyone exactly what I shouted to those gathered outside the court when a convoy led me to a police van: don't be afraid of anything," Navalny added.&nbsp;

"This is our country and we have no other."

Navalny's August 2020 poisoning with the Soviet-designed nerve agent Novichok and his subsequent arrest sparked widespread condemnation abroad as well as sanctions from Western capitals.

Moscow has refused to open an investigation into the attempt on his life, claiming there is insufficient evidence to open a probe and blaming Berlin for not cooperating.&nbsp;

On his return to Russia Navalny was jailed for more than two years on old fraud charges he says are politically motivated.

Ahead of the anniversary of his arrest, Russia last week added two of the opposition leader's closest aides to a list of "terrorists and extremists".

Ivan Zhdanov, 33, led Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, which produced hugely popular video probes accusing the authorities of systemic graft, while 41-year-old Leonid Volkov headed Navalny's network of regional offices.

Both of those organisations were banned by Russian courts and shuttered by staff fearing prosecution.&nbsp; 
Last month, investigators questioned several former regional Navalny coordinators, including Ksenia Fadeyeva, who is also a local lawmaker in the Siberian city of Tomsk.

(With inputs from agencies)

Alexei Navalny, the fiercest critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Monday that he did not regret returning to Russia. Navalny was detained in a Moscow airport on his return to Russia from Germany on January 17 last year, ushering in a months-long crackdown that has seen his most prominent allies imprisoned or exiled.

Alexei Navalny, the fiercest critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin said on Monday that he did not regret returning to Russia. Navalny was detained in a Moscow airport on his return to Russia from Germany on January 17 last year, ushering in a months-long crackdown that has seen his most prominent allies imprisoned or exiled. "I don't regret it for a second," Navalny wrote in a post on Instagram from a penal colony outside Moscow. "Having served my first year in prison, I want to tell everyone exactly what I shouted to those gathered outside the court when a convoy led me to a police van: don't be afraid of anything," Navalny added. "This is our country and we have no other." Navalny's August 2020 poisoning with the Soviet-designed nerve agent Novichok and his subsequent arrest sparked widespread condemnation abroad as well as sanctions from Western capitals. Moscow has refused to open an investigation into the attempt on his life, claiming there is insufficient evidence to open a probe and blaming Berlin for not cooperating. On his return to Russia Navalny was jailed for more than two years on old fraud charges he says are politically motivated. Ahead of the anniversary of his arrest, Russia last week added two of the opposition leader's closest aides to a list of "terrorists and extremists". Ivan Zhdanov, 33, led Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, which produced hugely popular video probes accusing the authorities of systemic graft, while 41-year-old Leonid Volkov headed Navalny's network of regional offices. Both of those organisations were banned by Russian courts and shuttered by staff fearing prosecution. Last month, investigators questioned several former regional Navalny coordinators, including Ksenia Fadeyeva, who is also a local lawmaker in the Siberian city of Tomsk. (With inputs from agencies)

I don't regret Russia return, says Navalny a year after his arrest

NATO welcomed the announcement on Wednesday&nbsp;that the European Parliament's annual human rights prize was to be awarded to Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny.

"I think that's an important recognition of the important role he has played for many years in supporting democratic values and being a strong voice in Russia," Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told a news conference, calling for his release.

Navalny, 45, who was poisoned in August 2020 by what Western nations said was a nerve agent, is serving a 2-1/2-year sentence for parole violations he calls trumped up. The EU has imposed sanctions on Russian officials over Navalny's poisoning and imprisonment.

Moscow denies any wrongdoing and accuses the EU of interfering in its domestic affairs. It has also denied Western accusations that Navalny was jailed for his political activities and said he was punished for breaking the law.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spains-former-king-juan-carlos-injected-with-female-hormones-to-control-his-sex-drive-ex-cop-423290">Also read |&nbsp;Spain’s former king Juan Carlos ‘injected with female hormones’ to control his sex drive: Ex-cop</a>

Stoltenberg also reacted to Russia's decision to close its mission to NATO saying the move did not foster cooperation.

"We regret this decision which does not promote dialogue and mutual understanding but NATO's policy remains consistent and we remain open to dialogue," he said.

NATO said on October 6 it had expelled eight members of Russia's mission to the alliance who it said were "undeclared Russian intelligence officers".

Moscow said at the time that the expulsions undermined hopes that relations with the U.S.-led alliance could normalise.

NATO welcomed the announcement on Wednesday that the European Parliament's annual human rights prize was to be awarded to Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. "I think that's an important recognition of the important role he has played for many years in supporting democratic values and being a strong voice in Russia," Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told a news conference, calling for his release.

NATO welcomed the announcement on Wednesday that the European Parliament's annual human rights prize was to be awarded to Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny. "I think that's an important recognition of the important role he has played for many years in supporting democratic values and being a strong voice in Russia," Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg told a news conference, calling for his release. Navalny, 45, who was poisoned in August 2020 by what Western nations said was a nerve agent, is serving a 2-1/2-year sentence for parole violations he calls trumped up. The EU has imposed sanctions on Russian officials over Navalny's poisoning and imprisonment. Moscow denies any wrongdoing and accuses the EU of interfering in its domestic affairs. It has also denied Western accusations that Navalny was jailed for his political activities and said he was punished for breaking the law. Also read | Spain’s former king Juan Carlos ‘injected with female hormones’ to control his sex drive: Ex-cop Stoltenberg also reacted to Russia's decision to close its mission to NATO saying the move did not foster cooperation. "We regret this decision which does not promote dialogue and mutual understanding but NATO's policy remains consistent and we remain open to dialogue," he said. NATO said on October 6 it had expelled eight members of Russia's mission to the alliance who it said were "undeclared Russian intelligence officers". Moscow said at the time that the expulsions undermined hopes that relations with the U.S.-led alliance could normalise.

NATO chief welcomes Navalny's award of top EU rights prize

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