<p>The Russian Supreme Court, on Monday (Mar 4) upheld a ruling which barred anti-war presidential hopeful Boris Nadezhdin from contesting in the upcoming election. This comes weeks after Nadezhdin had conceded saying he does not have a chance to appear on the March ballot.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russian Supreme Court ruling</strong></h2>

<p>Nadezhdin, 60, had filed an appeal against a decision taken by Russia’s Central Election Commission to bar him from being registered for running against incumbent President Vladimir Putin in the upcoming election.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We’re now writing a complaint to the presidium of the Supreme Court. From there we’re only one step away from the Constitutional Court,” said the 60-year-old city council member in the town of Dolgoprudny, in a post on Telegram. He added, “For now, we are guided by Russian law.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-claims-responsibility-for-railway-bridge-blast-in-southwest-russia-696496">Ukraine claims responsibility for railway bridge blast in southwest Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>“I’m not going to stop, I’ll fight until the end,” said Nadezhdin. The anti-war presidential hopeful was nominated by the Civic Initiative party to oppose the incumbent president who is running virtually unopposed for his fifth term which will keep him in power until 2030.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 60-year-old has been a vocal critic of the war in Ukraine and garnered support among Russians who also oppose it. The latest rejection comes after the Russian apex court&nbsp;rejected two other appeals Nadezhdin lodged after the Central Election Commission’s decision to bar him.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Why is he barred from contesting the election?</strong></h2>

<p>Russian election law requires candidates to attain at least 100,000 signatures to qualify to run for the presidency. The 60-year-old had garnered 105,000 signatures with opposing the war in Ukraine being a key part of his campaign.</p>

<p>However, in late February, the Central Election Commission declared more than 9,000 of the signatures submitted by Nadezhdin’s campaign invalid, which was enough to get him disqualified from the race.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Over the years, Russian elections, tightly controlled by the Kremlin, have reportedly been marred by the exclusion of opposition candidates, voter intimidation, and even ballot stuffing.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-40-countries-call-for-international-probe-into-death-of-kremlin-critic-navalny-696541">More than 40 countries call for international probe into death of Kremlin critic Navalny</a></strong></p>

<p>Before he was disqualified, Nadezhdin had run an effective campaign and garnered attention for his anti-war stance by calling it a “fatal mistake” and criticism of Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, four candidates, including the Russian president, have been approved to contest in the March elections which will be held between 15 and 17.&nbsp;</p>

<p>However, the three candidates have not criticised Putin and are said to be from Kremlin-friendly parties represented in parliament and are viewed by many as token contenders.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


The Russian Supreme Court, on Monday (Mar 4) upheld a ruling which barred anti-war presidential hopeful Boris Nadezhdin from contesting in the upcoming election.

The Russian Supreme Court, on Monday (Mar 4) upheld a ruling which barred anti-war presidential hopeful Boris Nadezhdin from contesting in the upcoming election. This comes weeks after Nadezhdin had conceded saying he does not have a chance to appear on the March ballot. Russian Supreme Court ruling Nadezhdin, 60, had filed an appeal against a decision taken by Russia’s Central Election Commission to bar him from being registered for running against incumbent President Vladimir Putin in the upcoming election. “We’re now writing a complaint to the presidium of the Supreme Court. From there we’re only one step away from the Constitutional Court,” said the 60-year-old city council member in the town of Dolgoprudny, in a post on Telegram. He added, “For now, we are guided by Russian law.” Also Read | Ukraine claims responsibility for railway bridge blast in southwest Russia “I’m not going to stop, I’ll fight until the end,” said Nadezhdin. The anti-war presidential hopeful was nominated by the Civic Initiative party to oppose the incumbent president who is running virtually unopposed for his fifth term which will keep him in power until 2030. The 60-year-old has been a vocal critic of the war in Ukraine and garnered support among Russians who also oppose it. The latest rejection comes after the Russian apex court rejected two other appeals Nadezhdin lodged after the Central Election Commission’s decision to bar him. Why is he barred from contesting the election? Russian election law requires candidates to attain at least 100,000 signatures to qualify to run for the presidency. The 60-year-old had garnered 105,000 signatures with opposing the war in Ukraine being a key part of his campaign. However, in late February, the Central Election Commission declared more than 9,000 of the signatures submitted by Nadezhdin’s campaign invalid, which was enough to get him disqualified from the race. Over the years, Russian elections, tightly controlled by the Kremlin, have reportedly been marred by the exclusion of opposition candidates, voter intimidation, and even ballot stuffing. Also Read | More than 40 countries call for international probe into death of Kremlin critic Navalny Before he was disqualified, Nadezhdin had run an effective campaign and garnered attention for his anti-war stance by calling it a “fatal mistake” and criticism of Putin. So far, four candidates, including the Russian president, have been approved to contest in the March elections which will be held between 15 and 17. However, the three candidates have not criticised Putin and are said to be from Kremlin-friendly parties represented in parliament and are viewed by many as token contenders. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian presidential election: Top court upholds decision barring anti-war candidate; Nadezhdin vows to appeal

<p>President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Feb 29) delivered his annual state-of-the-nation address and updated Russians about the ongoing war against Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He talked about Moscow's nuclear capabilities by announcing the deployment and tests of new hypersonic weapons. Putin&nbsp;also issued a warning to the West saying that Russia had weapons that could strike within their territory and that their threats created a "real" risk of nuclear war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At the address, which came ahead of a March 15-17 presidential election, Putin said, "They [West] should eventually realise that we also have weapons that can hit targets on their territory."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-launches-soyuz-rocket-into-space-carrying-iranian-satellite-695097">Russia launches Soyuz rocket into space carrying Iranian satellite</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"Everything that the West comes up with creates the real threat of a conflict with the use of nuclear weapons, and thus the destruction of civilisation," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The war in Ukraine, which started on February 24, 2022, has led to the worst crisis in Moscow's relations with the West since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the course of the war, Putin has issued several warnings to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members against&nbsp;sending military assistance and ground troops to Ukraine as he said it would cause a direct confrontation between NATO and Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"They have announced the possibility of sending Western military contingents to Ukraine... The consequences for possible interventionists will be much more tragic," he said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aliens-entering-russia-ukraine-war-kyivs-soldiers-spot-mysterious-ufo-shaped-object-video-695066">Ukrainian soldiers spot mysterious UFO-shaped object in sky: Video</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><strong>Watch: Russian forces destroy US-made Abrams tank Avdeyevka area&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Putin's comment came a few days after French President Emmanuel Macron refused to rule out sending troops to Ukraine. However, several key NATO members, including the United States, said they would not send troops to fight in Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Germany, Britain, Spain, Poland and the Czech Republic have already distanced themselves from any suggestion they might commit ground troops to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russia previously warned that he was "not bluffing" when he said he was ready to use nuclear weapons, Putin had appeared in recent months to dial down his nuclear threats. Russia has also pulled out of arms control treaties with the US.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The latest warning comes with the Kremlin's recent gains on the battlefield in Ukraine, but also an economy that has largely defied sanctions and ahead of an election certain to extend Putin's term in the Kremlin until 2030.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Feb 29) delivered his annual state-of-the-nation address and updated Russians about the ongoing war against Ukraine. He talked about Moscow's nuclear capabilities by announcing the deployment and tests of new hypersonic weapons.

President Vladimir Putin on Thursday (Feb 29) delivered his annual state-of-the-nation address and updated Russians about the ongoing war against Ukraine. He talked about Moscow's nuclear capabilities by announcing the deployment and tests of new hypersonic weapons. Putin also issued a warning to the West saying that Russia had weapons that could strike within their territory and that their threats created a "real" risk of nuclear war. At the address, which came ahead of a March 15-17 presidential election, Putin said, "They [West] should eventually realise that we also have weapons that can hit targets on their territory." Also read: Russia launches Soyuz rocket into space carrying Iranian satellite "Everything that the West comes up with creates the real threat of a conflict with the use of nuclear weapons, and thus the destruction of civilisation," he added. The war in Ukraine, which started on February 24, 2022, has led to the worst crisis in Moscow's relations with the West since the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis. During the course of the war, Putin has issued several warnings to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members against sending military assistance and ground troops to Ukraine as he said it would cause a direct confrontation between NATO and Russia. "They have announced the possibility of sending Western military contingents to Ukraine... The consequences for possible interventionists will be much more tragic," he said. Also read: Ukrainian soldiers spot mysterious UFO-shaped object in sky: Video Watch: Russian forces destroy US-made Abrams tank Avdeyevka area × Putin's comment came a few days after French President Emmanuel Macron refused to rule out sending troops to Ukraine. However, several key NATO members, including the United States, said they would not send troops to fight in Ukraine. Germany, Britain, Spain, Poland and the Czech Republic have already distanced themselves from any suggestion they might commit ground troops to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war. Russia previously warned that he was "not bluffing" when he said he was ready to use nuclear weapons, Putin had appeared in recent months to dial down his nuclear threats. Russia has also pulled out of arms control treaties with the US. The latest warning comes with the Kremlin's recent gains on the battlefield in Ukraine, but also an economy that has largely defied sanctions and ahead of an election certain to extend Putin's term in the Kremlin until 2030. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin warns West over 'real' risk of nuclear war, announces deployment of new hypersonic weapons

Russia's opposition leader, Alexei Navalny, has passed away. While the Russian government disputes any connection, his wife claims that President Putin assassinated her husband. What does his passing signify, then, for Russia's future, the opposition, and the Kremlin?

Alexei Navalny's funeral to be held in Moscow, his team says funeral homes refused to hold service

Less than three weeks before Russia goes to vote in the Presidential Election. President Vladimir Putin delivered his state of the nation address on Thursday. In his 19th such annual speech, Putin speaks on the war in Ukraine, Moscow's nuclear capabilities, the Russian economy and the relations with the west.

Russia: Vladimir Putin's state of the nation address

Russian president Vladimir Putin cautioned Western nations about Russia's military capabilities, warning of the potential for conflict. Stressing Russia's ability to strike Western targets, Putin highlighted the risk of nuclear war amid escalating tensions.

Russia: Vladimir Putin warns West of 'real' risk of nuclear war

Vladimir Putin warns Russia's weapons able to hit targets in west

Russia: Putin warns of 'real' risk of nuclear war if west sends troops

<p>Yulia Navalnaya, the wife of Alexei Navalny, said on Wednesday (Feb 28) that she feared disruption and arrests at her husband's funeral, which is scheduled to take place on Friday in Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>While speaking about the funeral, she said "I'm not sure yet whether it will be peaceful or whether the police will arrest those who have come to say goodbye to my husband."&nbsp;</p>

<p>She again alleged that Russian President Vladimir Putin killed her husband, claiming Navalny was "tortured, cut off from the outside world and denied visit and phone calls and then even letter" on Putin's order.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-funeral-to-take-place-on-friday-in-moscow-his-team-confirms-694722">Alexei Navalny's funeral to take place on March 1 in Moscow, his team confirms</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Yulia called the Russian leader a "leader of an organised criminal gang", which also includes poisoners and assassins. She said you are not dealing with a politician but with a "bloody mobster".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Then they killed him, and even after that they abused his body and his mother," Navalnaya told the European Parliament. Russia has previously denied the allegations, stating that a probe into the circumstances around the Russian opposition leader's death is underway.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Can Navalny's death impact the upcoming Russian election?&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Russian authorities have also claimed that Navalny died of natural causes after he lost consciousness following a walk in his Arctic prison colony. However, his family rejects the claim.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Navalny's funeral is finally taking place Match 1 in a Moscow church two weeks after his death. Authorities resisted handing Navalny's body to his family for eight days. But his team said was an attempt to "cover" up who was responsible for his death and prevent a public burial.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/noon-against-putin-navalny-ally-urges-russians-to-join-election-day-protest-in-kremlin-critics-memory-694449">Navalny ally urges Russians to join election day protest in Kremlin critic’s memory</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Who was Alexei Navalny?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Navalny was a staunch critic of Putin and rose to fame through his anti-corruption campaigning. He exposed what he said was rampant corruption at the top of Putin's administration.</p>

<p>He was arrested in January 2021 when he returned to Russia after being treated in Germany for a poisoning attack he suffered while campaigning against Putin in Siberia months earlier.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Yulia Navalnaya, the wife of Alexei Navalny, said on Wednesday (Feb 28) that she feared disruption and arrests at her husband's funeral, which is scheduled to take place on Friday in Moscow.

Yulia Navalnaya, the wife of Alexei Navalny, said on Wednesday (Feb 28) that she feared disruption and arrests at her husband's funeral, which is scheduled to take place on Friday in Moscow. While speaking about the funeral, she said "I'm not sure yet whether it will be peaceful or whether the police will arrest those who have come to say goodbye to my husband." She again alleged that Russian President Vladimir Putin killed her husband, claiming Navalny was "tortured, cut off from the outside world and denied visit and phone calls and then even letter" on Putin's order. Also read: Alexei Navalny's funeral to take place on March 1 in Moscow, his team confirms Yulia called the Russian leader a "leader of an organised criminal gang", which also includes poisoners and assassins. She said you are not dealing with a politician but with a "bloody mobster". "Then they killed him, and even after that they abused his body and his mother," Navalnaya told the European Parliament. Russia has previously denied the allegations, stating that a probe into the circumstances around the Russian opposition leader's death is underway. Watch: Can Navalny's death impact the upcoming Russian election? × Russian authorities have also claimed that Navalny died of natural causes after he lost consciousness following a walk in his Arctic prison colony. However, his family rejects the claim. Navalny's funeral is finally taking place Match 1 in a Moscow church two weeks after his death. Authorities resisted handing Navalny's body to his family for eight days. But his team said was an attempt to "cover" up who was responsible for his death and prevent a public burial. Also read: Navalny ally urges Russians to join election day protest in Kremlin critic’s memory Who was Alexei Navalny? Navalny was a staunch critic of Putin and rose to fame through his anti-corruption campaigning. He exposed what he said was rampant corruption at the top of Putin's administration. He was arrested in January 2021 when he returned to Russia after being treated in Germany for a poisoning attack he suffered while campaigning against Putin in Siberia months earlier. (With inputs from agencies)

Navalny's wife again says 'mobster' Putin killed her husband, claims he was 'tortured'

Zelenskyy stated that Russia is preparing a new offensive against Ukraine starting in late May or summer but Kyiv has a clear Battlefield plan of its own. Speaking of day after the second anniversary of Russia's Invasion the Ukrainian president said that it was extremely important for Kyiv and its Western allies to remain United he further asserted that Ukraine's Victory depends on continued Western support. Watch to know more!

Russia-Ukraine war | Russia says, 'Our forces have improved positions near Avdiivka, Donetsk'

<p>Russia on Sunday announced that its forces had taken up more advantageous positions near Ukraine's Avdiivka and Donetsk. This comes as the Ukraine-Russia war completed two years&nbsp;and Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the military to push further into Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Better positions&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A Russian defence military report said that its troops had pushed back Ukrainian forces near Klishchiivka, Dyliivka and Kurdiumivka, villages south of Bakhmut.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/zelenskys-rare-admission-says-31000-ukrainian-soldiers-killed-in-war-with-russia-693799">Zelensky admits 31,000 Ukrainian soldiers killed in war with Russia, pegs Moscow casualties at 180,000</a></strong></p>

<p>"In the Donetsk direction, units of the Southern grouping of troops improved the situation along the front line and defeated formations of the 22nd, 28th and 92nd mechanised brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the areas of the settlements of Klishchiivka, Dyliivka and Kurdiumivka."</p>

<p>It also said that the nation's troops had taken better positions near Avdiivka.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Russia makes crucial advances in Ukraine | Pushes further in West</strong></p>

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<p>"In the Avdiivka direction, units of the Centre group of forces occupied more advantageous lines and positions, and also defeated manpower and equipment of the 3rd Assault Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the 107th Air Defence Brigade."</p>

<p>As per the ministry, the Russian forces had repelled seven Ukrainian counterattacks in the area. In the process, 77 of Kyiv's drones were destroyed, it added.</p>

<h2><strong>Ukraine's report</strong></h2>

<p>Ukraine, on the other hand, made no mention of Russian gains in the Donetsk region in its report. However, it noted clashes around Avdiivka, which was reportedly captured by Russian forces last week.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-presidential-election-early-voting-begins-in-occupied-ukrainian-region-of-zaporizhzhia-693789">Russian presidential election: Early voting begins in occupied Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia</a></strong></p>

<p>In its evening report, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said that the embattled nation's forces had repelled 18 attacks near Avdiivka. A Reuters report also said that five Russian attacks had been beaten back near Bakhmut, referring to Klishchiivka, Kurdiumivka and other localities.</p>

<p>Just last Tuesday, Putin said Russian troops would push further into Ukraine to build on their success after the fall of Avdiivka — Moscow's biggest gain in recent days — where he said Ukrainian troops had fled in chaos.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia on Sunday announced that its forces had taken up more advantageous positions near Ukraine's Avdiivka and Donetsk. This comes as the Ukraine-Russia war completed two years and Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the military to push further into Ukraine.

Russia on Sunday announced that its forces had taken up more advantageous positions near Ukraine's Avdiivka and Donetsk. This comes as the Ukraine-Russia war completed two years and Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the military to push further into Ukraine. Better positions A Russian defence military report said that its troops had pushed back Ukrainian forces near Klishchiivka, Dyliivka and Kurdiumivka, villages south of Bakhmut. Also read | Zelensky admits 31,000 Ukrainian soldiers killed in war with Russia, pegs Moscow casualties at 180,000 "In the Donetsk direction, units of the Southern grouping of troops improved the situation along the front line and defeated formations of the 22nd, 28th and 92nd mechanised brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the areas of the settlements of Klishchiivka, Dyliivka and Kurdiumivka." It also said that the nation's troops had taken better positions near Avdiivka. Watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Russia makes crucial advances in Ukraine | Pushes further in West × "In the Avdiivka direction, units of the Centre group of forces occupied more advantageous lines and positions, and also defeated manpower and equipment of the 3rd Assault Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the 107th Air Defence Brigade." As per the ministry, the Russian forces had repelled seven Ukrainian counterattacks in the area. In the process, 77 of Kyiv's drones were destroyed, it added. Ukraine's report Ukraine, on the other hand, made no mention of Russian gains in the Donetsk region in its report. However, it noted clashes around Avdiivka, which was reportedly captured by Russian forces last week. Also read | Russian presidential election: Early voting begins in occupied Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia In its evening report, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces said that the embattled nation's forces had repelled 18 attacks near Avdiivka. A Reuters report also said that five Russian attacks had been beaten back near Bakhmut, referring to Klishchiivka, Kurdiumivka and other localities. Just last Tuesday, Putin said Russian troops would push further into Ukraine to build on their success after the fall of Avdiivka — Moscow's biggest gain in recent days — where he said Ukrainian troops had fled in chaos. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia claims its troops have advanced to better positions in Ukraine's Avdiivka and Donetsk

<p>Early voting in Russia’s presidential election began in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia, reported state news agency TASS, on Sunday (Feb 25) citing a Moscow-appointed local election official. Meanwhile, the leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations said that they will “never recognise” the elections held in the occupied Ukrainian regions.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Russian presidential election early voting</strong></h2>

<p>Early voting for the Russian presidential election kicked off in the Russian-occupied region of Ukraine, Zaporizhzhia, said Galina Katyushchenko, chairperson of the regional election commission, according to TASS.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: EU President says, 'More than ever, we stand firmly by Ukraine'</strong></p>

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<p>The district election commission members will reportedly go door-to-door in the settlements which are adjacent to the frontline amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, with ballot papers and boxes and the residents of these areas and Russian soldiers, will be the first ones to vote.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“People who live close to the line of engagement and service members will be the first to vote,” Katyushchenko told reporters, as quoted by TASS.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The voters will be asked to present their Russian or Ukrainian passports in order to cast the ballots, according to the commission in the Russian-occupied region. The polling stations in Zaporizhzhia will open on March 17, reported TASS.</p>

<p>Zaporizhzhia is one of four Ukrainian regions that Russia annexed in 2022 but only controls parts of them. In September, Russian authorities held elections in the annexed regions for Russian-installed officials which was denounced by the West and Ukraine as a sham.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-23-year-old-indian-killed-in-drone-strike-was-employed-by-russia-693753">Russia-Ukraine war: 23-year-old Indian killed in drone strike, was employed by Russia</a></strong></p>

<p>The election will see Russian President Vladimir Putin running virtually unopposed for his fifth term which will keep him in power until 2030.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, the Russian Supreme Court upheld the ruling by electoral authorities barring anti-war candidate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-blocks-anti-putin-campaigner-nadezhdin-from-election-688290">Boris Nadezhdin</a> from contesting in next month’s election.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>G7 leaders won’t recognise elections</strong></h2>

<p>On Saturday (Feb 24) marking the second anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the leaders from G7 nations released a statement saying that they will not recognise the elections held in Russian-occupied regions of Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-50-of-western-arms-deliveries-dont-arrive-on-time-says-kyiv-693727">Ukraine war: 50% of Western arms deliveries don’t arrive on time, says Kyiv</a></strong></p>

<p>The leaders of the G7 nations – Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, as well as the European Union – called on Russia to “immediately cease its war of aggression and completely and unconditionally withdraw its military forces from the internationally recognised territory of Ukraine.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>It added, “We will never recognise so-called ‘elections’, past and future, held by Russia in the territories of Ukraine, nor their results.”&nbsp;</p>

<p>The G7 leaders called Russia’s intention to hold votes in occupied Ukrainian territories in the upcoming presidential election, an “outrageous violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty”.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Early voting in Russia’s presidential election began in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia, reported state news agency TASS, on Sunday (Feb 25) citing a Moscow-appointed local election official.

Early voting in Russia’s presidential election began in the Russian-occupied Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia, reported state news agency TASS, on Sunday (Feb 25) citing a Moscow-appointed local election official. Meanwhile, the leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations said that they will “never recognise” the elections held in the occupied Ukrainian regions. Russian presidential election early voting Early voting for the Russian presidential election kicked off in the Russian-occupied region of Ukraine, Zaporizhzhia, said Galina Katyushchenko, chairperson of the regional election commission, according to TASS. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine war: EU President says, 'More than ever, we stand firmly by Ukraine' The district election commission members will reportedly go door-to-door in the settlements which are adjacent to the frontline amid the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, with ballot papers and boxes and the residents of these areas and Russian soldiers, will be the first ones to vote. “People who live close to the line of engagement and service members will be the first to vote,” Katyushchenko told reporters, as quoted by TASS. The voters will be asked to present their Russian or Ukrainian passports in order to cast the ballots, according to the commission in the Russian-occupied region. The polling stations in Zaporizhzhia will open on March 17, reported TASS. Zaporizhzhia is one of four Ukrainian regions that Russia annexed in 2022 but only controls parts of them. In September, Russian authorities held elections in the annexed regions for Russian-installed officials which was denounced by the West and Ukraine as a sham. Also Read | Russia-Ukraine war: 23-year-old Indian killed in drone strike, was employed by Russia The election will see Russian President Vladimir Putin running virtually unopposed for his fifth term which will keep him in power until 2030. Last week, the Russian Supreme Court upheld the ruling by electoral authorities barring anti-war candidate Boris Nadezhdin from contesting in next month’s election. G7 leaders won’t recognise elections On Saturday (Feb 24) marking the second anniversary of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the leaders from G7 nations released a statement saying that they will not recognise the elections held in Russian-occupied regions of Ukraine. Also Read | Ukraine war: 50% of Western arms deliveries don’t arrive on time, says Kyiv The leaders of the G7 nations – Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States, as well as the European Union – called on Russia to “immediately cease its war of aggression and completely and unconditionally withdraw its military forces from the internationally recognised territory of Ukraine.” It added, “We will never recognise so-called ‘elections’, past and future, held by Russia in the territories of Ukraine, nor their results.” The G7 leaders called Russia’s intention to hold votes in occupied Ukrainian territories in the upcoming presidential election, an “outrageous violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty”. (With inputs from agencies)

Russian presidential election: Early voting begins in occupied Ukrainian region of Zaporizhzhia

For more than 20 years, Vladimir Putin has been synonymous with Russian leadership. During his rule, there have been numerous opponents and vehement critics of the Kremlin. Some of these critics have died under mysterious circumstances. Who were the other critics of Putin apart from Navalny? What happened to them? Why did they die?

The mysterious fates of Putin's critics

<p>The wife of Russian Opposition leader Alexei Navalny, Yulia Navalnaya, has accused President Vladimir Putin of disrespecting Christianity by attempting to force Navalny's mother into agreeing to a secret funeral after his death in a penal colony.</p>

<p>In a video released on Saturday (Feb 24), Navalnaya expressed that authorities are literally torturing Navalny's mother, who wishes to have her son's body returned to her. Authorities allegedly threatened to bury Navalny in the Arctic prison, claiming the body was decomposing, and urged his mother to make a quick decision.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/love-you-more-and-more-alexei-navalnys-last-message-for-his-wife-from-jail-691011" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/love-you-more-and-more-alexei-navalnys-last-message-for-his-wife-from-jail-691011&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiw88nclcSEAxUqia8BHRShD0IQFnoECAYQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw0ry0uGW4c6WZDWPMbJKBpY" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/love-you-more-and-more-alexei-navalnys-last-message-for-his-wife-from-jail-691011" target="_blank">'Love you more and more,'&nbsp;<b>Navalny's</b>&nbsp;last message for his wife Yulia</a></p>

<p>"Give us the body of my husband," pleaded Navalnaya. "You tortured him alive, and now you keep torturing him dead. You mock the remains of the dead."</p>

<p>Navalny, Russia's prominent Opposition figure, unexpectedly passed away on February 16 in the penal colony, leading to spontaneous memorials across the country. Authorities have detained numerous individuals to suppress potential sympathy for Navalny, a vocal critic of Putin.</p>

<p>Navalnaya accused Putin, an Orthodox Christian, of being responsible for Navalny's death, stating, "No true Christian could ever do what Putin is now doing with the body of Alexei." She questioned the treatment of Navalny's corpse, criticising Putin for mocking the man he allegedly murdered.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/world/europe/who-is-yulia-navalnaya-wife-of-putin-critic-alexei-navalny-1708106912721" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/world/europe/who-is-yulia-navalnaya-wife-of-putin-critic-alexei-navalny-1708106912721&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiw88nclcSEAxUqia8BHRShD0IQFnoECAQQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw2336Z4EzokTBzHzc7gOEOk" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/web-stories/world/europe/who-is-yulia-navalnaya-wife-of-putin-critic-alexei-navalny-1708106912721" target="_blank">Who is Yulia Navalnaya, wife of Putin critic&nbsp;<b>Alexei Navalny</b>?</a></p>

<p>Putin, known for his public displays of Orthodox Christianity, has faced allegations of hypocrisy. Musician Nadya Tolokonnikova, a former member of Pussy Riot, released a video accusing Putin of trampling on traditional values. She urged Putin to have a conscience and return Navalny's body to his mother.</p>

<p>Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed accusations against Putin, labeling them "absolutely unfounded, insolent accusations about the head of the Russian state."</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;</strong><a data-ctorig="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-body-found-with-bruises-as-west-holds-putin-responsible-691438" data-cturl="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-element-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-body-found-with-bruises-as-west-holds-putin-responsible-691438&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiw88nclcSEAxUqia8BHRShD0IQFnoECAkQAg&amp;usg=AOvVaw1y_o9_4TxrgHAq-CFksFz8" dir="ltr" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-body-found-with-bruises-as-west-holds-putin-responsible-691438" target="_blank"><b>Alexei Navalny's</b>&nbsp;body found with 'bruises'</a></p>

<p>Cultural icons, including Tolokonnikova, released videos urging Russian authorities to return Navalny's body to his family.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Navalny's mother and lawyers have been striving to retrieve the body, with a closed-door hearing scheduled for March 4.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Alexei Navalny dead in prison, says Russia | Navalny's team says not informed about his death</strong></p>

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<p>Navalny's spokeswoman, Kira Yarmysh, stated that Navalny's mother was shown a medical certificate attributing his death to natural causes.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The wife of Russian Opposition leader Alexei Navalny, Yulia Navalnaya, has accused President Vladimir Putin of disrespecting Christianity by attempting to force Navalny's mother into agreeing to a secret funeral after his death in a penal colony.

The wife of Russian Opposition leader Alexei Navalny, Yulia Navalnaya, has accused President Vladimir Putin of disrespecting Christianity by attempting to force Navalny's mother into agreeing to a secret funeral after his death in a penal colony. In a video released on Saturday (Feb 24), Navalnaya expressed that authorities are literally torturing Navalny's mother, who wishes to have her son's body returned to her. Authorities allegedly threatened to bury Navalny in the Arctic prison, claiming the body was decomposing, and urged his mother to make a quick decision. Also read: 'Love you more and more,' Navalny's last message for his wife Yulia "Give us the body of my husband," pleaded Navalnaya. "You tortured him alive, and now you keep torturing him dead. You mock the remains of the dead." Navalny, Russia's prominent Opposition figure, unexpectedly passed away on February 16 in the penal colony, leading to spontaneous memorials across the country. Authorities have detained numerous individuals to suppress potential sympathy for Navalny, a vocal critic of Putin. Navalnaya accused Putin, an Orthodox Christian, of being responsible for Navalny's death, stating, "No true Christian could ever do what Putin is now doing with the body of Alexei." She questioned the treatment of Navalny's corpse, criticising Putin for mocking the man he allegedly murdered. Also read: Who is Yulia Navalnaya, wife of Putin critic Alexei Navalny? Putin, known for his public displays of Orthodox Christianity, has faced allegations of hypocrisy. Musician Nadya Tolokonnikova, a former member of Pussy Riot, released a video accusing Putin of trampling on traditional values. She urged Putin to have a conscience and return Navalny's body to his mother. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed accusations against Putin, labeling them "absolutely unfounded, insolent accusations about the head of the Russian state." Also read: Alexei Navalny's body found with 'bruises' Cultural icons, including Tolokonnikova, released videos urging Russian authorities to return Navalny's body to his family. Navalny's mother and lawyers have been striving to retrieve the body, with a closed-door hearing scheduled for March 4. Watch: Alexei Navalny dead in prison, says Russia | Navalny's team says not informed about his death × Navalny's spokeswoman, Kira Yarmysh, stated that Navalny's mother was shown a medical certificate attributing his death to natural causes. (With inputs from agencies)

Wife of Alexei Navalny accuses Putin of disrespecting Christianity by withholding husband’s body

<p><strong>Russia Ukraine War News:</strong>Two years ago, on Feb 24, 2022,&nbsp;Russian President Vladimir Putin declared war on Ukraine citing "expansion of NATO to the east" as an existential threat to Russia and a violation of post-Cold War understanding between the then-leaders in Moscow and the Western capitals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Since then, one more country&nbsp;— Finland&nbsp;— has become part of the US-led military alliance while another Russian neighbour,&nbsp;Sweden, is on course to enter NATO. But on the battlefield,&nbsp;two years of&nbsp;Russian advances, and Ukrainian counteroffensives have created a state of stalemate.</p>

<p>Russia controls just 18 per cent of Ukraine's internationally recognised territory. This is made up of 94 per cent of Luhansk Oblast, 73 per cent of Kherson Oblast, 72 per cent of Zaporizhzhia Oblast, and 54 per cent of Donetsk Oblast and Crimea. Notably, some of these territorial gains were made before&nbsp;February 24, 2022.</p>

<p>Since Ukraine’s failed counteroffensive in the summer of 2023, Russian forces have slowly inched forward, capturing the town of Avdiivka earlier this month after a&nbsp;months-long battle..</p>

<p><img alt="Two years into its full-scale offensive, Russia has captured a little less than a fifth of Ukraine's internationally-recognised territories| AFO" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="02100e2a-57ab-4405-8faa-d06dee4000ff" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design%20-%202024-02-24T162349.649.png" /></p>

<p><em>Two years into its full-scale offensive, Russia has captured a little less than a fifth of Ukraine's internationally-recognised territories | AFP</em></p>

<p>In the weeks after February 24, 2022, the economic picture for Moscow looked challenging for Russia as the Rouble crashed and foreign investors fled. But the war-related demand-supply chain fuelled and fulfilled by the military-industry complex came in handy. Add oil exports to the mix, and the Russian economy continued to withstand hundreds of Western sanctions as war raged on in Ukraine that gave Moscow control of Ukraine's all Black Sea ports except the port of Odesa.</p>

<p>In the second half of this two-year war period so far, an insurrection by the Wagner mercenary group in June 2023 led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, stunned the corridors of power in Moscow.</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-rebellion-when-putins-former-chef-served-a-dish-of-treason-ten-points-608452">Wagner rebellion: When Putin’s former favourite chef served a dish of ‘treason’ | 10 points</a></strong></p>

<p>The Wagner mercenaries, while following Prigozhin's orders, were halted just a few hours short of Moscow after a Belarus-brokered deal. The insurrection died as dramatically as it began, and so did Prigozhin — <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-wagner-chief-yevgeny-prigozhin-dies-in-plane-crash-628895">two months later</a>, in a mysterious plane crash.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/25/362065-untitled-design-2023-06-25t115710522.png?imwidth=400" /></p>

<p><em>File photo of Russian President Vladimir Putin with Yevgeny Prigozhin | Reuters</em></p>

<p>But Putin's hold on power continues to be stable. The Russian president is poised to win a fifth six-year&nbsp;presidential term in the upcoming March election.</p>

<p>The war, however, has displaced millions of Ukrainian nationals and has changed the geopolitical landscape of Eurocentric politics. The economies have been hit due to disrupted supply chains, triggering global economic uncertainty.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia-Ukraine war: Peace efforts continued as war raged</strong></h2>

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of signing a peace treaty with Russia to end the&nbsp;war and throwing it into the 'garbage of history' in the spring of 2022. Putin's comments came during a meeting with the leaders of the African Union spearheaded by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in St. Petersberg on June 17, 2023.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Turkey hosted a series of negotiations starting in the spring of 2022 to help develop "trust" between the two warring sides.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-says-boris-johnson-plays-spoilsport-to-derail-peace-deal-with-ukraine-680854">Putin says Boris Johnson played spoilsport as UK PM, derailed peace deal with Ukraine</a></strong></p>

<p>Ahead of the second anniversary of the war,&nbsp;Switzerland told the United Nations on Friday (Feb 23) that it intends to organise a high-level Ukraine&nbsp;peace conference&nbsp;"by the summer". Similarly, a Ukrainian official visiting India this week <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/exclusive-hopeful-that-pm-modi-will-attend-ukraine-peace-summit-says-ukrainian-minister-iryna-borovets-693299">confirmed</a> to WION that one such peace&nbsp;conference will be organised by Switzerland&nbsp;later this year.</p>

<p>India, too, has said&nbsp;that New Delhi is publicly committed to bringing the conflict to an end.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-india-act-as-mediator-to-end-russia-ukraine-war-jaishankar-responds-692012">Will India act as mediator to end Russia-Ukraine war? Jaishankar responds</a></strong></p>

<p>"Wherever we can help, we are happy to do so. We are open when we are approached. However, we do not believe that we should initiate anything in this direction on our own," India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-india-act-as-mediator-to-end-russia-ukraine-war-jaishankar-responds-692012">told</a> a German newspaper on Feb 20, 2024.</p>

<h2><strong>What is the current state of war?</strong></h2>

<p>The present-day momentum in the war rests with Russia due to control of Ukrainian ports as well as psychological blow to Ukraine's wartime morale due to the fall of the most aggressively defended Ukrainian town of Avdiivka earlier this month.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ukrainian forces are also reportedly sensing an acute shortage of equipment and manpower amid dwindling support from Washington.</p>

<p>Russia, on the other hand, has been able to successfully re-adapt its wartime tactics&nbsp;with increased military conscription and support from its indigenous military-industry complex for the production of military equipment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But nearly 45,000 Russians have been killed in action since February 2022, the independent outlet MediaZona has reported. To put this in context, this&nbsp;is three times the Red Army’s losses during its decade-long invasion of Afghanistan.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war: Two years of Russia-Ukraine war, what is next?</strong></p>

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<p>On the front lines in Ukraine, nearly 45,000 Russians have been killed in action since February 2022, the independent outlet MediaZona has reported. That is three times the Soviet Army’s losses during its decade-long military operations in&nbsp;Afghanistan.</p>

<p>But with its&nbsp;greater resources in terms of human power, the tactical gains and strategic advantages&nbsp;continue to stay tilted on the Russian side as the war enters its third year.&nbsp;</p>


Russia Ukraine War News:Two years ago, on Feb 24, 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared war on Ukraine citing "expansion of NATO to the east" as an existential threat to Russia and a violation of post-Cold War understanding between the then-leaders in Moscow and the Western capitals.

Russia Ukraine War News:Two years ago, on Feb 24, 2022, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared war on Ukraine citing "expansion of NATO to the east" as an existential threat to Russia and a violation of post-Cold War understanding between the then-leaders in Moscow and the Western capitals. Since then, one more country — Finland — has become part of the US-led military alliance while another Russian neighbour, Sweden, is on course to enter NATO. But on the battlefield, two years of Russian advances, and Ukrainian counteroffensives have created a state of stalemate. Russia controls just 18 per cent of Ukraine's internationally recognised territory. This is made up of 94 per cent of Luhansk Oblast, 73 per cent of Kherson Oblast, 72 per cent of Zaporizhzhia Oblast, and 54 per cent of Donetsk Oblast and Crimea. Notably, some of these territorial gains were made before February 24, 2022. Since Ukraine’s failed counteroffensive in the summer of 2023, Russian forces have slowly inched forward, capturing the town of Avdiivka earlier this month after a months-long battle.. Two years into its full-scale offensive, Russia has captured a little less than a fifth of Ukraine's internationally-recognised territories | AFP In the weeks after February 24, 2022, the economic picture for Moscow looked challenging for Russia as the Rouble crashed and foreign investors fled. But the war-related demand-supply chain fuelled and fulfilled by the military-industry complex came in handy. Add oil exports to the mix, and the Russian economy continued to withstand hundreds of Western sanctions as war raged on in Ukraine that gave Moscow control of Ukraine's all Black Sea ports except the port of Odesa. In the second half of this two-year war period so far, an insurrection by the Wagner mercenary group in June 2023 led by Yevgeny Prigozhin, stunned the corridors of power in Moscow. Also read | Wagner rebellion: When Putin’s former favourite chef served a dish of ‘treason’ | 10 points The Wagner mercenaries, while following Prigozhin's orders, were halted just a few hours short of Moscow after a Belarus-brokered deal. The insurrection died as dramatically as it began, and so did Prigozhin — two months later, in a mysterious plane crash. File photo of Russian President Vladimir Putin with Yevgeny Prigozhin | Reuters But Putin's hold on power continues to be stable. The Russian president is poised to win a fifth six-year presidential term in the upcoming March election. The war, however, has displaced millions of Ukrainian nationals and has changed the geopolitical landscape of Eurocentric politics. The economies have been hit due to disrupted supply chains, triggering global economic uncertainty. Russia-Ukraine war: Peace efforts continued as war raged Russian President Vladimir Putin accused Ukraine of signing a peace treaty with Russia to end the war and throwing it into the 'garbage of history' in the spring of 2022. Putin's comments came during a meeting with the leaders of the African Union spearheaded by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in St. Petersberg on June 17, 2023. Turkey hosted a series of negotiations starting in the spring of 2022 to help develop "trust" between the two warring sides. Also read | Putin says Boris Johnson played spoilsport as UK PM, derailed peace deal with Ukraine Ahead of the second anniversary of the war, Switzerland told the United Nations on Friday (Feb 23) that it intends to organise a high-level Ukraine peace conference "by the summer". Similarly, a Ukrainian official visiting India this week confirmed to WION that one such peace conference will be organised by Switzerland later this year. India, too, has said that New Delhi is publicly committed to bringing the conflict to an end. Also read | Will India act as mediator to end Russia-Ukraine war? Jaishankar responds "Wherever we can help, we are happy to do so. We are open when we are approached. However, we do not believe that we should initiate anything in this direction on our own," India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar told a German newspaper on Feb 20, 2024. What is the current state of war? The present-day momentum in the war rests with Russia due to control of Ukrainian ports as well as psychological blow to Ukraine's wartime morale due to the fall of the most aggressively defended Ukrainian town of Avdiivka earlier this month. The Ukrainian forces are also reportedly sensing an acute shortage of equipment and manpower amid dwindling support from Washington. Russia, on the other hand, has been able to successfully re-adapt its wartime tactics with increased military conscription and support from its indigenous military-industry complex for the production of military equipment. But nearly 45,000 Russians have been killed in action since February 2022, the independent outlet MediaZona has reported. To put this in context, this is three times the Red Army’s losses during its decade-long invasion of Afghanistan. Also watch | Russia-Ukraine war: Two years of Russia-Ukraine war, what is next? × On the front lines in Ukraine, nearly 45,000 Russians have been killed in action since February 2022, the independent outlet MediaZona has reported. That is three times the Soviet Army’s losses during its decade-long military operations in Afghanistan. But with its greater resources in terms of human power, the tactical gains and strategic advantages continue to stay tilted on the Russian side as the war enters its third year.

Russia-Ukraine war enters third year as Putin defies West’s support for Zelensky

<p>The United States on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a fresh wave of more than 500 sanctions against Russia. These sanctions announced on the second anniversary of the Ukrainian war, come after the death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in prison.</p>

<p>Vowing sustained pressure to stop Russian President Vladimir Putin's "war machine," President Joe Biden said that the sanctions will target more than 100 "individuals connected to Navalny's imprisonment as well as Russia’s financial sector, defence industrial base, procurement networks and sanctions evaders across multiple continents."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>What Biden said</strong></h2>

<p>Referring to the Ukraine war and Navalny's death, in a statement Biden said that the sanctions "will ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression abroad and repression at home."</p>

<p><strong>Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/us-to-impose-sanctions-on-over-500-targets-on-anniversary-of-ukraine-war-693074">US to impose sanctions on over 500 targets on anniversary of Ukraine war</a></strong></p>

<p>Biden announced that the US will implement additional export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for aiding Russia and will work towards reducing Russia's energy revenues.</p>

<p>"We are also imposing new export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for providing backdoor support for Russia's war machine," said Biden.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;France's defence minister Lecornu slams Moscow</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>Russia and Sanctions</strong></h2>

<p>Since the start of the Ukraine war, the United States and its Western allies have imposed a slew of measures against Moscow. This includes blocking its financial assets, restricting high-tech exports and even setting an official cap on the sale price of Russian oil exports.</p>

<p>The latest sanctions come after Biden declared that he considers Russian President Putin responsible for the death of 47-year-old Navalny.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/navalnys-daughter-offers-tribute-to-late-father-in-first-public-statement-693120">Alexei Navalny's daughter Dasha Navalnaya offers tribute to late father in first public statement</a></strong></p>

<p>Just a day earlier, on Thursday (Feb 22nd) he met with Navalny's wife Yulia Navalnay and their daughter Dasha in California.</p>

<p>After the meeting, he told reporters that the Putin opponent was a man of incredible courage."</p>

<p>Biden's announcement of the latest measures included a plea to Congress for new military aid to Ukraine.</p>

<p>"History is watching. The failure to support Ukraine at this critical moment will not be forgotten," said Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a fresh wave of more than 500 sanctions against Russia. These sanctions announced on the second anniversary of the Ukrainian war, come after the death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in prison.

The United States on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a fresh wave of more than 500 sanctions against Russia. These sanctions announced on the second anniversary of the Ukrainian war, come after the death of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny in prison. Vowing sustained pressure to stop Russian President Vladimir Putin's "war machine," President Joe Biden said that the sanctions will target more than 100 "individuals connected to Navalny's imprisonment as well as Russia’s financial sector, defence industrial base, procurement networks and sanctions evaders across multiple continents." What Biden said Referring to the Ukraine war and Navalny's death, in a statement Biden said that the sanctions "will ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression abroad and repression at home." Also read | US to impose sanctions on over 500 targets on anniversary of Ukraine war Biden announced that the US will implement additional export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for aiding Russia and will work towards reducing Russia's energy revenues. "We are also imposing new export restrictions on nearly 100 entities for providing backdoor support for Russia's war machine," said Biden. Watch | France's defence minister Lecornu slams Moscow × Russia and Sanctions Since the start of the Ukraine war, the United States and its Western allies have imposed a slew of measures against Moscow. This includes blocking its financial assets, restricting high-tech exports and even setting an official cap on the sale price of Russian oil exports. The latest sanctions come after Biden declared that he considers Russian President Putin responsible for the death of 47-year-old Navalny. Also read | Alexei Navalny's daughter Dasha Navalnaya offers tribute to late father in first public statement Just a day earlier, on Thursday (Feb 22nd) he met with Navalny's wife Yulia Navalnay and their daughter Dasha in California. After the meeting, he told reporters that the Putin opponent was a man of incredible courage." Biden's announcement of the latest measures included a plea to Congress for new military aid to Ukraine. "History is watching. The failure to support Ukraine at this critical moment will not be forgotten," said Biden. (With inputs from agencies)

US announces over 500 sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression'

<p>Russia on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a significant expansion of the list of European Union officials and politicians banned from entering Russia. This comes in response to the latest round of sanctions by the bloc.</p>

<h2><strong>'Fruitless attempts'</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement the Russian foreign ministry called the European Union's latest sanctions "fruitless attempts to put pressure," and said that the prohibitions are a response to the "unfriendly actions."</p>

<p>"The European Union is continuing its fruitless attempts to put pressure on Russia through unilateral restrictive measures," it said.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/joe-biden-announces-more-than-500-sanctions-targeting-russian-prez-vladimir-putins-war-machine-693182">US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression'</a></strong></p>

<p>"In response to these unfriendly actions, the Russian side has significantly expanded the list of representatives of European institutions and EU member states, who…are prohibited from entering the territory of our state."</p>

<p>As per a Reuters report quoting the Russian foreign ministry, the latest stop list includes representatives of law enforcement agencies and commercial organisations who provided military assistance to its neighbour, Ukraine. Additionally, representatives of European institutions involved in the prosecution of Russian officials, and those who gathered material to support the idea of confiscating Russian state assets feature on the said list.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Putin touts Russia's new nuclear bomber, Zelensky pleads for ammo | Has NATO lost Ukraine war?</strong></p>

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<p>"The Russian retaliatory 'stop list' also includes representatives of the Council of Europe, members of the legislative assemblies of European Union countries, members of the OSCE PA (Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) and the PACE (Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe), who systematically make aggressive statements against Russia," said the statement.</p>

<h2><strong>EU's sanctions on Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>On Wednesday (Feb 21st), EU member states approved the 13th package of Ukraine-related sanctions against Russia. These sanctions ban nearly 200 entities and individuals accused of helping Moscow procure weapons or of involvement in kidnapping Ukrainian children, a charge vehemently denied by Moscow.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-launches-probe-into-over-122000-suspected-war-crimes-since-start-of-russian-invasion-693241">Ukraine launches probe into over 122,000 suspected war crimes since start of Russian invasion</a></strong></p>

<p>The restrictions which as per Belgium are "one of the broadest approved by the EU" will see 193 entities and individuals added to the list of those banned from travelling to the EU or doing business there. However, no fresh measures were announced against specific economic sectors, reports Reuters citing unnamed EU diplomatic sources.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Russia on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a significant expansion of the list of European Union officials and politicians banned from entering Russia. This comes in response to the latest round of sanctions by the bloc.

Russia on Friday (Feb 23rd) announced a significant expansion of the list of European Union officials and politicians banned from entering Russia. This comes in response to the latest round of sanctions by the bloc. 'Fruitless attempts' In a statement the Russian foreign ministry called the European Union's latest sanctions "fruitless attempts to put pressure," and said that the prohibitions are a response to the "unfriendly actions." "The European Union is continuing its fruitless attempts to put pressure on Russia through unilateral restrictive measures," it said. Also read | US announces 500+ sanctions against Russia to 'ensure Putin pays an even steeper price for his aggression' "In response to these unfriendly actions, the Russian side has significantly expanded the list of representatives of European institutions and EU member states, who…are prohibited from entering the territory of our state." As per a Reuters report quoting the Russian foreign ministry, the latest stop list includes representatives of law enforcement agencies and commercial organisations who provided military assistance to its neighbour, Ukraine. Additionally, representatives of European institutions involved in the prosecution of Russian officials, and those who gathered material to support the idea of confiscating Russian state assets feature on the said list. Watch | Putin touts Russia's new nuclear bomber, Zelensky pleads for ammo | Has NATO lost Ukraine war? × "The Russian retaliatory 'stop list' also includes representatives of the Council of Europe, members of the legislative assemblies of European Union countries, members of the OSCE PA (Parliamentary Assembly of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe) and the PACE (Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe), who systematically make aggressive statements against Russia," said the statement. EU's sanctions on Ukraine On Wednesday (Feb 21st), EU member states approved the 13th package of Ukraine-related sanctions against Russia. These sanctions ban nearly 200 entities and individuals accused of helping Moscow procure weapons or of involvement in kidnapping Ukrainian children, a charge vehemently denied by Moscow. Also read | Ukraine launches probe into over 122,000 suspected war crimes since start of Russian invasion The restrictions which as per Belgium are "one of the broadest approved by the EU" will see 193 entities and individuals added to the list of those banned from travelling to the EU or doing business there. However, no fresh measures were announced against specific economic sectors, reports Reuters citing unnamed EU diplomatic sources. (With inputs from agencies)

Moscow responds to EU's 'unfriendly actions,' bans bloc members from entering Russia

US President Joe Biden attacked former President Donald Trump's remarks equating himself with the Russian opposition leader who passed away last week in an Arctic prison during a fundraiser for his reelection campaign on Wednesday night. Biden also referred to Russian President Vladimir Putin as a “crazy SOB”.

In a verbal spat, Biden calls Putin a "crazy SOB," while Kremlin denounces him as "Hollywood cowboy"

<p>Lyudmila Navalnaya, the mother of Alexei Navalny, has seen the body of the Russian opposition figure who died in prison, and accused officials of pressuring her into having a "secret" burial for her son. Navalny died last week in an Arctic prison.</p>

<p>In a video published by Navalny's team on Thursday (Feb 22) , her mother said, "They are blackmailing me, they put conditions for where, when and how Alexei should be buried. This is illegal. They want it to be done in secret."&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, the Russian investigators have not responded.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-russian-president-putin-takes-flight-on-nuclear-capable-tu-160m-strategic-bomber-692838">WATCH | Russian President Putin takes flight on nuclear-capable Tu-160M strategic bomber</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>Russia's state news agency TASS reported on Wednesday that Lyudmila filed a lawsuit in the Arctic city of Salekhard, challenging the refusal to release her son's body. Citing court officials, it reported that a closed-door hearing is scheduled for March 4.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Previously, she had urged Putin to hand over her son's body. Her message to Putin came after she travelled to the remote IK-3 prison where her son had died, but she was prevented from seeing his body.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 47-year-old Putin critic died suddenly in an Arctic penal colony, and the West accused Putin of direct involvement. His aides and family have alleged that the Kremlin murdered him, an allegation the Kremlin has rejected.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-uk-announces-new-sanctions-against-russia-to-mark-conflicts-anniversary-692835">Ukraine war: UK announces new sanctions against Russia to mark conflict's anniversary</a></strong></p>

<h2><strong>Lyudmila saw her body and death certificate</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>According to Lyudmila, she has been shown a death certificate and his body. She was taken to a morgue on Wednesday evening to see his body. Navalny's aides said the death certificate stated that the opposition politician had died of natural causes.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The investigators claim that they know the cause of death, they have all the medical and legal documents ready, which I saw, and I signed the medical death certificate," she said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"According to the law, they should have given me Alexei’s body right away, but they have not done so until now. Instead, they are blackmailing me, setting conditions on where, when and how Alexei should be buried. This is illegal."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;In focus: Russia-Iran arms trade&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Navalny's mother said: "I'm recording this video because they started threatening me. Looking into my eyes, they say that if I don't agree to a secret funeral, they will do something with my son's body."</p>

<p>She quoted one of the investigators as saying: "Time is not on your side, corpses decompose."&nbsp;</p>

<p>She added, "I don't want special conditions. I just want everything to be done according to the law. I demand that my son's body be returned to me immediately."&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Lyudmila Navalnaya, the mother of Alexei Navalny, has seen the body of the Russian opposition figure who died in prison, and accused officials of pressuring her into having a "secret" burial for her son.

Lyudmila Navalnaya, the mother of Alexei Navalny, has seen the body of the Russian opposition figure who died in prison, and accused officials of pressuring her into having a "secret" burial for her son. Navalny died last week in an Arctic prison. In a video published by Navalny's team on Thursday (Feb 22) , her mother said, "They are blackmailing me, they put conditions for where, when and how Alexei should be buried. This is illegal. They want it to be done in secret." So far, the Russian investigators have not responded. Also read: WATCH | Russian President Putin takes flight on nuclear-capable Tu-160M strategic bomber Russia's state news agency TASS reported on Wednesday that Lyudmila filed a lawsuit in the Arctic city of Salekhard, challenging the refusal to release her son's body. Citing court officials, it reported that a closed-door hearing is scheduled for March 4. Previously, she had urged Putin to hand over her son's body. Her message to Putin came after she travelled to the remote IK-3 prison where her son had died, but she was prevented from seeing his body. The 47-year-old Putin critic died suddenly in an Arctic penal colony, and the West accused Putin of direct involvement. His aides and family have alleged that the Kremlin murdered him, an allegation the Kremlin has rejected. Also read: Ukraine war: UK announces new sanctions against Russia to mark conflict's anniversary Lyudmila saw her body and death certificate According to Lyudmila, she has been shown a death certificate and his body. She was taken to a morgue on Wednesday evening to see his body. Navalny's aides said the death certificate stated that the opposition politician had died of natural causes. "The investigators claim that they know the cause of death, they have all the medical and legal documents ready, which I saw, and I signed the medical death certificate," she said. "According to the law, they should have given me Alexei’s body right away, but they have not done so until now. Instead, they are blackmailing me, setting conditions on where, when and how Alexei should be buried. This is illegal." Watch: In focus: Russia-Iran arms trade × Navalny's mother said: "I'm recording this video because they started threatening me. Looking into my eyes, they say that if I don't agree to a secret funeral, they will do something with my son's body." She quoted one of the investigators as saying: "Time is not on your side, corpses decompose." She added, "I don't want special conditions. I just want everything to be done according to the law. I demand that my son's body be returned to me immediately." (With inputs from agencies)

Navalny's mother sees his body, accuses Russian officials of pressuring her into 'secret burial'

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday (Feb 22) flew on a modernised Tu-160M nuclear-capable strategic bomber, in a move which is seen as a reminder to the West of Moscow’s nuclear capabilities amid the ongoing war with Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Putin’s flight in nuclear-capable bomber</strong></h2>

<p>The Russian president took a 30-minute flight, as per Russian state news agency TASS, in the giant swing-wing plane, Tu-160M nuclear-capable strategic bomber, codenamed ‘Blackjack’ by NATO. The military aircraft is a modernised version of a Cold War-era bomber which was deployed by the Soviets in the event of a nuclear war to deliver weapons over long distances.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">President Vladimir Putin takes to the skies in Russia's TU-160M strategic bomber<br />
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(Video: The Kremlin)<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VladimirPutin?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VladimirPutin</a> <a href="https://t.co/bCD6QxgR1A">pic.twitter.com/bCD6QxgR1A</a></p>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1760693590643089482?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 22, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Russian state TV showed Putin climbing down a ladder from the plane after the flight and praised the upgraded version of the Tu-160 bomber and called it a reliable aircraft which could be used by the Air Force.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It’s a new machine, a lot about it is new. It’s easier to control. It’s reliable,” said Putin. As per Russian media reports he flew in an aircraft, named Ilya Muromets which took off from the Gorbunov Kazan Aviation Plant located in Kazan, 720 kilometres from the capital city of Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The bomber’s route was not disclosed, said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov ahead of the flight. The flight also came a day after Putin climbed into the aircraft’s cockpit and toured the plant in Kazan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Putin’s flight in the nuclear-capable bomber comes amid its ongoing war with Ukraine where Russia recently took over the Ukrainian town of Avdiivka marking Moscow's&nbsp;biggest battlefield gain since its forces captured Bakhmut last May.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-claims-to-have-taken-over-village-of-pobieda-in-ukraines-donetsk-region-692733">Russia claims to have taken over village of Pobieda in Ukraine's Donetsk region</a></strong></p>

<p>The Russian president, who is expected to easily win another six-year term in next month’s election, made the flight at a time when Moscow and the West are at odds due to the war in Ukraine and the recent death of opposition politician Alexei Navalny.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>About the Tu-160M strategic bomber</strong></h2>

<p>The Tu-160M which can carry a crew of four is also capable of carrying 12 cruise missiles or 12 short-range nuclear missiles. The aircraft can fly around 12,000 kilometres without refuelling. It is also said to be the world’s largest supersonic military aircraft and the heaviest warplane.&nbsp;</p>

<p><img alt="1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="74983163-0a08-43f1-a0b5-c0e836e651b6" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WION%20IMAGES%21%20-%202024-02-22T213025.147.png" /></p>

<p><em><strong>Image shows a&nbsp;modernized Tu-160M nuclear-capable strategic bomber taking off in Kazan, Russia February 22, 2024. (Photo: Reuters)</strong></em></p>

<p>Notably, this is not the first time that the 71-year-old Russian leader has flown on a Tu-160 aircraft. In 2005, Putin took an older version of the Tu-160 aircraft to an area where Russia's Northern Fleet was conducting training exercises.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Amid the ongoing war, the Russian president has repeatedly made veiled threats to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine. Additionally, in a warning to the West over its continued support for Kyiv Russia suspended its participation in a landmark nuclear arms control agreement, the New START treaty.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday (Feb 22) flew on a modernised Tu-160M nuclear-capable strategic bomber, in a move which is seen as a reminder to the West of Moscow’s nuclear capabilities amid the ongoing war with Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, on Thursday (Feb 22) flew on a modernised Tu-160M nuclear-capable strategic bomber, in a move which is seen as a reminder to the West of Moscow’s nuclear capabilities amid the ongoing war with Ukraine. Putin’s flight in nuclear-capable bomber The Russian president took a 30-minute flight, as per Russian state news agency TASS, in the giant swing-wing plane, Tu-160M nuclear-capable strategic bomber, codenamed ‘Blackjack’ by NATO. The military aircraft is a modernised version of a Cold War-era bomber which was deployed by the Soviets in the event of a nuclear war to deliver weapons over long distances. President Vladimir Putin takes to the skies in Russia's TU-160M strategic bomber (Video: The Kremlin)#VladimirPutin pic.twitter.com/bCD6QxgR1A — WION (@WIONews) February 22, 2024 × The Russian state TV showed Putin climbing down a ladder from the plane after the flight and praised the upgraded version of the Tu-160 bomber and called it a reliable aircraft which could be used by the Air Force. “It’s a new machine, a lot about it is new. It’s easier to control. It’s reliable,” said Putin. As per Russian media reports he flew in an aircraft, named Ilya Muromets which took off from the Gorbunov Kazan Aviation Plant located in Kazan, 720 kilometres from the capital city of Moscow. The bomber’s route was not disclosed, said Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov ahead of the flight. The flight also came a day after Putin climbed into the aircraft’s cockpit and toured the plant in Kazan. Putin’s flight in the nuclear-capable bomber comes amid its ongoing war with Ukraine where Russia recently took over the Ukrainian town of Avdiivka marking Moscow's biggest battlefield gain since its forces captured Bakhmut last May. Also Read | Russia claims to have taken over village of Pobieda in Ukraine's Donetsk region The Russian president, who is expected to easily win another six-year term in next month’s election, made the flight at a time when Moscow and the West are at odds due to the war in Ukraine and the recent death of opposition politician Alexei Navalny. About the Tu-160M strategic bomber The Tu-160M which can carry a crew of four is also capable of carrying 12 cruise missiles or 12 short-range nuclear missiles. The aircraft can fly around 12,000 kilometres without refuelling. It is also said to be the world’s largest supersonic military aircraft and the heaviest warplane. Image shows a modernized Tu-160M nuclear-capable strategic bomber taking off in Kazan, Russia February 22, 2024. (Photo: Reuters) Notably, this is not the first time that the 71-year-old Russian leader has flown on a Tu-160 aircraft. In 2005, Putin took an older version of the Tu-160 aircraft to an area where Russia's Northern Fleet was conducting training exercises. Amid the ongoing war, the Russian president has repeatedly made veiled threats to use nuclear weapons in Ukraine. Additionally, in a warning to the West over its continued support for Kyiv Russia suspended its participation in a landmark nuclear arms control agreement, the New START treaty. (With inputs from agencies)

WATCH | Russian President Putin takes flight on nuclear-capable Tu-160M strategic bomber

Russian President Vladimir Putin declared Tuesday that Moscow has no intention of deploying nuclear weapons in space, claiming that the country has only developed space capabilities similar to those of the US.

Russian President Putin denies plans to deploy nuclear weapons in space

<p>Former US president Donald Trump has said Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was a "brave"&nbsp;man who probably should not have returned to his country. Navalny was pronounced dead last week in rather mysterious circumstances, prompting accusations from the Western bloc that President Vladimir Putin had engineered the entire plot to silence an influential voice.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Trump, who has been an admirer of Putin for a long time, commented on Navalny's death without assigning blame to anyone.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Navalny is a very sad situation, and he is a very brave, he was a very brave guy because he went back. He could have stayed away," Trump said during a town hall interview with <em>Fox News</em> in South Carolina.</p>

<p>"And, frankly, he probably would have been a lot better off staying away and talking from outside of the country as opposed to having to go back in, because people thought that could happen and it did happen. And it's a horrible thing," he added.</p>

<p>The Republican leader compared himself to Navalny, implying that both had faced politically motivated prosecutions.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But it's happening in our country too.&nbsp;We are turning into a communist country in many ways. And if you look at it - I'm the leading candidate. I get indicted."</p>

<p>Trump's fresh statement comes after he took to his Truth Social network on Sunday (Feb 18) and said Navalny's death made&nbsp;him "more aware of what is happening" in the United States.</p>

<p>“It is a slow, steady progression, with CROOKED, Radical Left Politicians, Prosecutors, and Judges leading us down a path to destruction," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/alexei-navalny-death-navalnys-body-found-with-bruises-as-west-holds-putin-responsible-691608"><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Alexei Navalny death: Navalny’s body found with ‘bruises’ as West holds Putin responsible</strong></a></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" data-gtm-yt-inspected-20="true" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/alexei-navalny-death-navalnys-body-found-with-bruises-as-west-holds-putin-responsible-691608/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<h2><strong>Biden criticises Trump</strong></h2>

<p>Trump's statements appeared to have rubbed&nbsp;President Joe Biden the wrong way as the Democrat issued a scathing assessment.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Why does Trump always blame America? Putin is responsible for Navalny's death. Why can't Trump just say that?" said Biden.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden, alongside other Western leaders, has said Putin was behind Navalny's death and that he used his powers to&nbsp;cull freedom in Russia.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What has happened to Navalny is yet more proof of Putin's brutality no one should be fooled not in Russia not at home not anywhere in the world," said US President Joe Biden last week.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw1WPNNH7fjwh_C3Ktq11u7O" data-ved="2ahUKEwjao7KD8LSEAxVryDgGHUCDBjkQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-mother-was-told-he-died-by-sudden-death-syndrome-says-leaders-team-691308" jsname="YKoRaf">Authorities told Alexei Navalny’s mother that he died due to ‘sudden death syndrome’</a></strong></p>

<p>On Monday, Biden added he was "considering&nbsp;additional sanctions"&nbsp;on Moscow over Navalny's death.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Navalny&nbsp;once led street protests against the Russian president, building a potent opposition that constantly targeted Moscow's corrupt officials. However, akin to several other opposition voices, he was promptly sent behind the bars, eventually leading to his death.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Former US president Donald Trump has said Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was a "brave" man who probably should not have returned to his country. Navalny was pronounced dead last week in rather mysterious circumstances, prompting accusations from the Western bloc that President Vladimir Putin had engineered the entire plot to silence an influential voice.

Former US president Donald Trump has said Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was a "brave" man who probably should not have returned to his country. Navalny was pronounced dead last week in rather mysterious circumstances, prompting accusations from the Western bloc that President Vladimir Putin had engineered the entire plot to silence an influential voice. Trump, who has been an admirer of Putin for a long time, commented on Navalny's death without assigning blame to anyone. "Navalny is a very sad situation, and he is a very brave, he was a very brave guy because he went back. He could have stayed away," Trump said during a town hall interview with Fox News in South Carolina. "And, frankly, he probably would have been a lot better off staying away and talking from outside of the country as opposed to having to go back in, because people thought that could happen and it did happen. And it's a horrible thing," he added. The Republican leader compared himself to Navalny, implying that both had faced politically motivated prosecutions. "But it's happening in our country too. We are turning into a communist country in many ways. And if you look at it - I'm the leading candidate. I get indicted." Trump's fresh statement comes after he took to his Truth Social network on Sunday (Feb 18) and said Navalny's death made him "more aware of what is happening" in the United States. “It is a slow, steady progression, with CROOKED, Radical Left Politicians, Prosecutors, and Judges leading us down a path to destruction," he added. Watch | Alexei Navalny death: Navalny’s body found with ‘bruises’ as West holds Putin responsible Biden criticises Trump Trump's statements appeared to have rubbed President Joe Biden the wrong way as the Democrat issued a scathing assessment. "Why does Trump always blame America? Putin is responsible for Navalny's death. Why can't Trump just say that?" said Biden. Biden, alongside other Western leaders, has said Putin was behind Navalny's death and that he used his powers to cull freedom in Russia. "What has happened to Navalny is yet more proof of Putin's brutality no one should be fooled not in Russia not at home not anywhere in the world," said US President Joe Biden last week. Also read: Authorities told Alexei Navalny’s mother that he died due to ‘sudden death syndrome’ On Monday, Biden added he was "considering additional sanctions" on Moscow over Navalny's death. Navalny once led street protests against the Russian president, building a potent opposition that constantly targeted Moscow's corrupt officials. However, akin to several other opposition voices, he was promptly sent behind the bars, eventually leading to his death. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump says 'brave' Navalny should not have returned to Russia

<p>Lyudmila Navalnaya, Alexei Navalny's mother, on Tuesday (Feb 20) urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to hand over her son's body after his death five days ago in an Arctic jail.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I appeal to you, Vladimir Putin, the solution to the issue depends only on you. Let me finally see my son. I demand that Alexei's body be released immediately so that I can bury him in a humane way," she said as quoted by news agencies.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Lyudmila and her son's lawyer visited the "Polar Wolf" IK-3 penal colony in Russia's Arctic north, where Navalny had been held since last year. They travelled over the weekend to take Navalny's body, but they failed as they received contradicting information about its location. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-wife-yulias-x-social-media-account-suspended-692033">Alexei Navalny's wife Yulia's X social media account suspended</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>Yulia Navalnaya's response to Kremlin's remarks</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>Yulia said on Tuesday that she did not care about the Kremlin's reaction after she accused Putin's administration of being involved in her husband's death.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"I do not give a damn how the press secretary of a murderer comments on my words," Yulia Navalnaya, who has vowed to continue her husband's work, wrote on social media platform X.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The West has accused Russia of having involvement in the death of Navalny, the Russian opposition leader and staunch critic of Putin. Some have even held Putin directly responsible.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="ru">Я буду продолжать дело Алексея Навального. Продолжать бороться за нашу с вами страну. И я призываю вас встать рядом со мной. <a href="https://t.co/aBOIvcYHHk">pic.twitter.com/aBOIvcYHHk</a></p>
— Yulia Navalnaya (@yulia_navalnaya) <a href="https://twitter.com/yulia_navalnaya/status/1759528536858087508?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fsb-arrests-us-russian-woman-for-alleged-treason-funding-ukrainian-army-691989">Russia's FSB arrests US-Russian woman for alleged treason, funding Ukrainian Army</a></strong></p>

<p>While reacting to the claims, the Kremlin said the accusations were "unfounded and vulgar".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Of course, these are absolutely unfounded and vulgar accusations against the head of the Russian state. But taking into account that Yulia Navalnaya was widowed just days ago, I will not comment," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.</p>

<p>Yulia had also shared a video which was viewed by millions online, vowing to continue her husband's fight "for the freedom of our country".</p>

<p>A day after she created the account and shared the video message, the X social media site suspended her account. A message on the @Yulia_Navalnaya account page read: "Account suspended. X suspends accounts which violate the X rules." It included a link to the site's rules of use but did not provide a specific reason for the account being suspended.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine war | Russia takes control of Avdiivka plant</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>France calls for 'independent' probe&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>On Tuesday, France called for an "independent" probe into the death of Navalny after summoning Moscow's envoy.</p>

<p>"France holds the Russian authorities fully responsible for the death of Alexei Navalny," the foreign ministry said in a statement.</p>

<p>France "calls for an independent and in-depth investigation," the ministry said, adding that Russia's ambassador had been summoned on Monday.</p>

<p>"France calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners in Russia and expresses in particular its deep concern over the critical state of health of opponent Vladimir Kara-Murza," the statement added.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Lyudmila Navalnaya, Alexei Navalny's mother, on Tuesday (Feb 20) urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to hand over her son's body after his death five days ago in an Arctic jail.

Lyudmila Navalnaya, Alexei Navalny's mother, on Tuesday (Feb 20) urged Russian President Vladimir Putin to hand over her son's body after his death five days ago in an Arctic jail. "I appeal to you, Vladimir Putin, the solution to the issue depends only on you. Let me finally see my son. I demand that Alexei's body be released immediately so that I can bury him in a humane way," she said as quoted by news agencies. Lyudmila and her son's lawyer visited the "Polar Wolf" IK-3 penal colony in Russia's Arctic north, where Navalny had been held since last year. They travelled over the weekend to take Navalny's body, but they failed as they received contradicting information about its location. Also read: Alexei Navalny's wife Yulia's X social media account suspended Yulia Navalnaya's response to Kremlin's remarks Yulia said on Tuesday that she did not care about the Kremlin's reaction after she accused Putin's administration of being involved in her husband's death. "I do not give a damn how the press secretary of a murderer comments on my words," Yulia Navalnaya, who has vowed to continue her husband's work, wrote on social media platform X. The West has accused Russia of having involvement in the death of Navalny, the Russian opposition leader and staunch critic of Putin. Some have even held Putin directly responsible. Я буду продолжать дело Алексея Навального. Продолжать бороться за нашу с вами страну. И я призываю вас встать рядом со мной. pic.twitter.com/aBOIvcYHHk — Yulia Navalnaya (@yulia_navalnaya) February 19, 2024 × Also read: Russia's FSB arrests US-Russian woman for alleged treason, funding Ukrainian Army While reacting to the claims, the Kremlin said the accusations were "unfounded and vulgar". "Of course, these are absolutely unfounded and vulgar accusations against the head of the Russian state. But taking into account that Yulia Navalnaya was widowed just days ago, I will not comment," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. Yulia had also shared a video which was viewed by millions online, vowing to continue her husband's fight "for the freedom of our country". A day after she created the account and shared the video message, the X social media site suspended her account. A message on the @Yulia_Navalnaya account page read: "Account suspended. X suspends accounts which violate the X rules." It included a link to the site's rules of use but did not provide a specific reason for the account being suspended. Watch: Russia-Ukraine war | Russia takes control of Avdiivka plant × France calls for 'independent' probe On Tuesday, France called for an "independent" probe into the death of Navalny after summoning Moscow's envoy. "France holds the Russian authorities fully responsible for the death of Alexei Navalny," the foreign ministry said in a statement. France "calls for an independent and in-depth investigation," the ministry said, adding that Russia's ambassador had been summoned on Monday. "France calls for the immediate and unconditional release of all political prisoners in Russia and expresses in particular its deep concern over the critical state of health of opponent Vladimir Kara-Murza," the statement added. (With inputs from agencies)

Navalny’s mother urges Putin to release body ‘immediately’ for proper burial

<p>Russian President Vladimir Putin gifted a Russian-made car to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, said Pyongyang's state media on Tuesday (Feb 20), as the two countries bolster ties in areas of defence, tourism and others.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The gift has violated the multiple UN sanctions on North Korea over the nuclear and other weapons programmes of Kim Jong Un. The sanctions, passed in the past with approval also from Russia, bans the the import of any luxury goods or vehicles into the country.</p>

<p>Kim was "presented with a car made in Russia for his personal use by Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, president of the Russian Federation,"&nbsp;reported Pyongyang's official Korean Central News Agency.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-to-hold-alexei-navalnys-body-for-two-weeks-carry-out-chemical-analysis-claims-family-691827">Russia to hold Alexei Navalny’s body for two weeks, will carry out 'chemical analysis’, family told</a></p>

<p>Speaking about the car, Kim's sister Yo Jong said the "gift serves as a clear demonstration of the special personal relations between the top leaders" of the two countries, added KCNA.</p>

<h2><strong>Kim Jong Un's love for cars</strong></h2>

<p>Kim is known for his affinity for lavish automobiles.</p>

<p>He has been seen using luxury cars, which include Lexus SUVs and Mercedes-Benz S-Class models.</p>

<p>According to a 2021 UN report, there was an attempted shipment of luxury vehicles, worth more than $1 million, to North Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The list of luxury vehicles included models allegedly sent from the United Arab Emirates to Ningbo, China.</p>

<p>South Korea's unification ministry said that the gift from Putin, which they had classed as a luxury vehicle and was given as a gift to Kim, was a violation of UN sanctions.</p>

<p>"We condemn North Korea for its brazen attitude of publicly disclosing violations of the UN sanctions," said a ministry official, while speaking to the reporters.</p>

<p>"Russia should also be aware of its responsibility as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and stop an act that undermines international norms," the official said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Alexei Navalny death: Navalny’s widow accuses Putin of killing him and vows to continue his work</strong></p>

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<p>When Kim visited Russia last year, Putin had offered him the back seat of his presidential Aurus Senat limousine.</p>

<p>Kim had reached Moscow with his Maybach limousine, which had travelled on a special train from North Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Seoul-based specialist site NK News reported that there was a possibility the vehicle was an Aurus Senat armoured sedan or limousine.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies</em>)</p>


Russian President Vladimir Putin gifted a Russian-made car to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, said Pyongyang's state media on Tuesday (Feb 20), as the two countries bolster ties in areas of defence, tourism and others.

Russian President Vladimir Putin gifted a Russian-made car to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, said Pyongyang's state media on Tuesday (Feb 20), as the two countries bolster ties in areas of defence, tourism and others. The gift has violated the multiple UN sanctions on North Korea over the nuclear and other weapons programmes of Kim Jong Un. The sanctions, passed in the past with approval also from Russia, bans the the import of any luxury goods or vehicles into the country. Kim was "presented with a car made in Russia for his personal use by Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin, president of the Russian Federation," reported Pyongyang's official Korean Central News Agency. Also Read: Russia to hold Alexei Navalny’s body for two weeks, will carry out 'chemical analysis’, family told Speaking about the car, Kim's sister Yo Jong said the "gift serves as a clear demonstration of the special personal relations between the top leaders" of the two countries, added KCNA. Kim Jong Un's love for cars Kim is known for his affinity for lavish automobiles. He has been seen using luxury cars, which include Lexus SUVs and Mercedes-Benz S-Class models. According to a 2021 UN report, there was an attempted shipment of luxury vehicles, worth more than $1 million, to North Korea. The list of luxury vehicles included models allegedly sent from the United Arab Emirates to Ningbo, China. South Korea's unification ministry said that the gift from Putin, which they had classed as a luxury vehicle and was given as a gift to Kim, was a violation of UN sanctions. "We condemn North Korea for its brazen attitude of publicly disclosing violations of the UN sanctions," said a ministry official, while speaking to the reporters. "Russia should also be aware of its responsibility as a permanent member of the UN Security Council and stop an act that undermines international norms," the official said. Watch: Alexei Navalny death: Navalny’s widow accuses Putin of killing him and vows to continue his work When Kim visited Russia last year, Putin had offered him the back seat of his presidential Aurus Senat limousine. Kim had reached Moscow with his Maybach limousine, which had travelled on a special train from North Korea. Seoul-based specialist site NK News reported that there was a possibility the vehicle was an Aurus Senat armoured sedan or limousine. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin gifts Russian-made car to North Korea's Kim Jong Un, violating UN sanctions

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<p>Putin critic Alexei Navalny's mother Lyudmila Navalnaya and his lawyer travelled over the weekend to the notorious “Polar Wolf” IK-3 penal colony in Russia to track down his body. Navalny had been held in the colony since 2023. According to a report by The Guardian on Sunday (Feb 18), Navalnaya received contradicting information from various institutions about her son's body and left the prison complex without recovering it.</p>

<p>The whereabouts of his body remain uncertain.</p>

<p>Navalnaya was first told that her son's body had been taken to a morgue at a hospital in Salekhard, a town near the complex. However, when she arrived at a morgue on Saturday, it was closed.</p>

<p>Ivan Zhdanov, director of&nbsp;Navalny’s Anti-Corruption Foundation, said that the Navalny's&nbsp;mother and lawyer were also told that the cause of his death was “sudden death syndrome.”</p>

<h2><strong>Navalny's body found with bruises</strong></h2>

<p>According to an independent news outlet, a paramedic at the Salekhard ambulance service said that colleagues who treated Navalny's body found signs of bruises&nbsp;consistent with seizure as well as traces of heart massage attempts. However, a morgue employee denied this claim.&nbsp; Meanwhile, Navalny's team said that his relatives were refused access to the body for a third day.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-body-found-with-bruises-as-west-holds-putin-responsible-691438">Alexei Navalny’s body found with ‘bruises’ as West holds Putin responsible</a></strong></p>

<p>Navalny, a 47-year-old former lawyer, rose to prominence campaigning against corruption in Putin's Russia. He was known for his fiery rhetoric at public protests and in courtrooms, vocal presence on social media, and his team's elaborate video investigations into state graft.</p>

<p>According to the prison service, Navalny fell unconscious and died last Friday after he went for a walk at the prison complex. He was serving a 19-year sentence at the prison. The cause of his death is disputed.</p>

<h2><strong>Russia: Over 400 detained at events in memory of Navalny</strong></h2>

<p>More than 400 people have been detained at events across 32 Russian cities since Navalny's death. According to rights group OVD-Info, the largest number of arrests occurred in St Petersburg and Moscow, where Navalny's support had traditionally been strong.</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Navalny's team confirms death, family demands body 'immediately'</strong></p>

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<p>This has been the largest wave of arrests at political events in Russia since Sept 2022, when over 1,300 people were arrested at demonstrations against a "partial mobilisation" of reservists for Vladimir Putin's war on Ukraine.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>


Putin critic Alexei Navalny's mother Lyudmila Navalnaya and his lawyer travelled over the weekend to the notorious “Polar Wolf” IK-3 penal colony in Russia to track down his body.

Putin critic Alexei Navalny's mother Lyudmila Navalnaya and his lawyer travelled over the weekend to the notorious “Polar Wolf” IK-3 penal colony in Russia to track down his body. Navalny had been held in the colony since 2023. According to a report by The Guardian on Sunday (Feb 18), Navalnaya received contradicting information from various institutions about her son's body and left the prison complex without recovering it. The whereabouts of his body remain uncertain. Navalnaya was first told that her son's body had been taken to a morgue at a hospital in Salekhard, a town near the complex. However, when she arrived at a morgue on Saturday, it was closed. Ivan Zhdanov, director of Navalny’s Anti-Corruption Foundation, said that the Navalny's mother and lawyer were also told that the cause of his death was “sudden death syndrome.” Navalny's body found with bruises According to an independent news outlet, a paramedic at the Salekhard ambulance service said that colleagues who treated Navalny's body found signs of bruises consistent with seizure as well as traces of heart massage attempts. However, a morgue employee denied this claim. Meanwhile, Navalny's team said that his relatives were refused access to the body for a third day. Also read | Alexei Navalny’s body found with ‘bruises’ as West holds Putin responsible Navalny, a 47-year-old former lawyer, rose to prominence campaigning against corruption in Putin's Russia. He was known for his fiery rhetoric at public protests and in courtrooms, vocal presence on social media, and his team's elaborate video investigations into state graft. According to the prison service, Navalny fell unconscious and died last Friday after he went for a walk at the prison complex. He was serving a 19-year sentence at the prison. The cause of his death is disputed. Russia: Over 400 detained at events in memory of Navalny More than 400 people have been detained at events across 32 Russian cities since Navalny's death. According to rights group OVD-Info, the largest number of arrests occurred in St Petersburg and Moscow, where Navalny's support had traditionally been strong. Also watch | Navalny's team confirms death, family demands body 'immediately' × This has been the largest wave of arrests at political events in Russia since Sept 2022, when over 1,300 people were arrested at demonstrations against a "partial mobilisation" of reservists for Vladimir Putin's war on Ukraine. (With inputs from agencies)

Where's Navalny's body? Contrasting accounts as mother leaves from penal colony after failing to locate it

<p>Alexei Navalny's wife said in a video published on Monday (Feb 19) that President Vladimir Putin killed her husband and&nbsp;vowed to continue his work, while urging his supporters to support her.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Kremlin said that the investigation into the circumstances around the Russian opposition leader's death is underway. It further slammed the "vulgar statements" over the Kremlin's responsibility for his death.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On being asked about the probe, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, "It's ongoing, all the necessary actions are being carried out. At the moment, the results of the investigation have not been released, they are unknown."&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-400-detained-across-russia-at-gatherings-in-memory-of-alexei-navalny-691636">Over 400 detained across Russia at gatherings held for Alexei Navalny</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<h2><strong>West accuses Putin</strong>&nbsp;</h2>

<p>The West has accused Russia of having involvement in the death of Navalny, the Russian opposition leader and staunch critic of Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some have even held Putin directly responsible for Navalny's death, with US President Joe Biden calling it "yet more proof of Putin's brutality".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Peskov further said that Moscow considered a series of "blatantly vulgar statements" about Navalny's death to be "absolutely unacceptable".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/navalnys-mother-travels-to-polar-wolf-penal-colony-where-putin-critic-was-jailed-691576">Where's Navalny's body? Contrasting accounts as mother leaves from penal colony after failing to locate it</a>&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p>"In these conditions, when there is no information, it is absolutely unacceptable to make such blatantly vulgar remarks," Peskov said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Navalny, Putin's most vocal critic, died Friday aged 47 in the Arctic prison colony where he was being held on charges widely seen as punishment for campaigning against Putin.&nbsp;</p>

<p>So far, the Russian authorities have refused to hand over the opposition leader's body to his relatives.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.&nbsp;</strong></em></p>

<p><strong>Watch the video here:</strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Navalny's widow Yulia:<br />
"I will continue Alexei Navalny's work. Continue to fight for our country together with you...Against war and corruption...And I urge you to stand beside me."<br />
Yulia that she "knows why Putin killed Alexei" and "will soon tell about it" <a href="https://t.co/jBEM5M2faf">pic.twitter.com/jBEM5M2faf</a></p>
— Pjotr Sauer (@PjotrSauer) <a href="https://twitter.com/PjotrSauer/status/1759533035081380308?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 19, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Navalny's wife says 'Putin killed my husband'</strong></h2>

<p>Navalny's wife said that Putin killed her husband. In a video address published Monday, a tear-eyed Yulia Navalnaya said, "Three days ago, Vladimir Putin killed my husband, Alexei Navalny."&nbsp;</p>

<p>She also vowed to continue his work, calling on his supporters to support her. "I will continue the work for Alexei Navalny. I will continue to fight for the freedom of our country," Yulia said in the video. "And I call on you to stand by me."&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Germany summons Russian ambassador&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Germany on Monday summoned the Russian ambassador over Navalny's death, a foreign ministry spokeswoman said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"The politically motivated proceedings against Alexei Navalny and against numerous other critics of the Russian government, and the inhumane prison conditions, show how brutally the Russian judiciary is cracking down on dissenters and the means President (Vladimir) Putin is using to suppress freedom of expression in Russia," the spokeswoman said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


Alexei Navalny's wife said in a video published on Monday (Feb 19) that President Vladimir Putin killed her husband and vowed to continue his work, while urging his supporters to support her.

Alexei Navalny's wife said in a video published on Monday (Feb 19) that President Vladimir Putin killed her husband and vowed to continue his work, while urging his supporters to support her. Meanwhile, Kremlin said that the investigation into the circumstances around the Russian opposition leader's death is underway. It further slammed the "vulgar statements" over the Kremlin's responsibility for his death. On being asked about the probe, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters, "It's ongoing, all the necessary actions are being carried out. At the moment, the results of the investigation have not been released, they are unknown." Also read: Over 400 detained across Russia at gatherings held for Alexei Navalny West accuses Putin The West has accused Russia of having involvement in the death of Navalny, the Russian opposition leader and staunch critic of Putin. Some have even held Putin directly responsible for Navalny's death, with US President Joe Biden calling it "yet more proof of Putin's brutality". Peskov further said that Moscow considered a series of "blatantly vulgar statements" about Navalny's death to be "absolutely unacceptable". Also read: Where's Navalny's body? Contrasting accounts as mother leaves from penal colony after failing to locate it "In these conditions, when there is no information, it is absolutely unacceptable to make such blatantly vulgar remarks," Peskov said. Navalny, Putin's most vocal critic, died Friday aged 47 in the Arctic prison colony where he was being held on charges widely seen as punishment for campaigning against Putin. So far, the Russian authorities have refused to hand over the opposition leader's body to his relatives. Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Watch the video here: Navalny's widow Yulia: "I will continue Alexei Navalny's work. Continue to fight for our country together with you...Against war and corruption...And I urge you to stand beside me." Yulia that she "knows why Putin killed Alexei" and "will soon tell about it" pic.twitter.com/jBEM5M2faf — Pjotr Sauer (@PjotrSauer) February 19, 2024 × Navalny's wife says 'Putin killed my husband' Navalny's wife said that Putin killed her husband. In a video address published Monday, a tear-eyed Yulia Navalnaya said, "Three days ago, Vladimir Putin killed my husband, Alexei Navalny." She also vowed to continue his work, calling on his supporters to support her. "I will continue the work for Alexei Navalny. I will continue to fight for the freedom of our country," Yulia said in the video. "And I call on you to stand by me." Germany summons Russian ambassador Germany on Monday summoned the Russian ambassador over Navalny's death, a foreign ministry spokeswoman said. "The politically motivated proceedings against Alexei Navalny and against numerous other critics of the Russian government, and the inhumane prison conditions, show how brutally the Russian judiciary is cracking down on dissenters and the means President (Vladimir) Putin is using to suppress freedom of expression in Russia," the spokeswoman said. (With inputs from agencies)

Navalny’s wife says ‘Putin killed my husband’, Kremlin states investigation underway

<p>The biggest development of the day came from a prison just 100 km west of Moscow when reports emerged that Russian President Vladimir Putin's most vocal critic Alexei Navalny had died. Reactions poured in from across the world as leaders pointed fingers at Putin for alleged role in Navalny's death. In West Asia, the war continues to rage between Israel and Hamas while consequent tensions in the Red Sea also continue to persist in the region.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click here to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-opposition-politician-alexei-navalny-is-dead-reports-690945"><strong>Alexei Navalny, most ardent Putin critic in recent years dies in prison, says Russian state media</strong></a></p>

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<p>Jailed Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny has died in prison, Russian state media reported, citing the prison authority of Yamalo-Nenets region where Navalny was serving a 19-year sentence. Navalny, aged 47, became the biggest anti-establishment figure in Russia in recent years due to his staunch criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin.</p>

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<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-eng-anil-kumble-full-of-praise-for-ravi-ashwin-after-joining-500-wicket-club-says-very-proud-of-you-690986"><strong>IND vs ENG: Anil Kumble full of praise for Ravi Ashwin after joining 500-wicket club, says 'very proud of you'</strong></a></p>

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<p>It was a monumental day for India’s Ravichandran Ashwin after the veteran spinner scalped his 500th Test wicket against England on Day 2 of the Rajkot Test on Friday (Feb 16). Ashwin, playing in his 98th Test match achieved the feat when he got the better of Zak Crawley in the 14th over and became just the second Indian bowler after Anil Kumble to reach the 500-wicket mark.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/french-actor-gerard-depardieu-faces-new-sex-assault-complaint-690933"><strong>French actor Gerard Depardieu faces new sex assault complaint</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="main img" src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/12/20/400317-your-paragraph-text-2023-12-20t084825143.jpg?imwidth=500" /></p>

<p>A woman has accused French screen legend Gerard Depardieu of allegedly sexually assaulting her during a 2014 film shoot, according to the police complaint and a newspaper report.</p>


The biggest development of the day came from a prison just 100 km west of Moscow when reports emerged that Russian President Vladimir Putin's most vocal critic Alexei Navalny had died.

The biggest development of the day came from a prison just 100 km west of Moscow when reports emerged that Russian President Vladimir Putin's most vocal critic Alexei Navalny had died. Reactions poured in from across the world as leaders pointed fingers at Putin for alleged role in Navalny's death. In West Asia, the war continues to rage between Israel and Hamas while consequent tensions in the Red Sea also continue to persist in the region. Click here to read more: Alexei Navalny, most ardent Putin critic in recent years dies in prison, says Russian state media Jailed Russian opposition politician Alexei Navalny has died in prison, Russian state media reported, citing the prison authority of Yamalo-Nenets region where Navalny was serving a 19-year sentence. Navalny, aged 47, became the biggest anti-establishment figure in Russia in recent years due to his staunch criticism of Russian President Vladimir Putin. India, Taiwan move forward with key pact on labour cooperation In a potential step forward toward the recognition of Taiwan's sovereignty, India and Taiwan on Friday (Feb 16) signed a significant agreement paving the way for the arrival of Indian migrant workers on the self-ruled island nation which China claims as its own. Five killed due to lack of medical hospital in Israel-raided Gaza hospital, says Hamas-run health ministry Five patients on Friday (Feb 16) died due to lack of medical oxygen at a Gaza hospital that was raided by Israeli authorities earlier this week, the Hamas-run health ministry in the blockaded Palestinian enclave said. Kansas City attack: Who is Sahil Omar, and why does his name trend after most US shootings, explosions? During the celebratory rally for the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl victory in the US, tragedy struck as one person was killed and 22 others injured in a shooting incident near Kansas City's Union Station on Thursday (Feb 15). Police swiftly took into custody three individuals in connection with the attack. Egypt builds wall, deploys tanks on Gaza border to prevent refugee influx if Israel enters Rafah: Report Amid fears of a ground invasion of Rafah by Israel, Egypt has reportedly started constructing a wall in the Sinai Desert near Gaza in an effort to prevent a significant influx of Palestinian refugees, Wall Street Journal reported on Friday (Feb 16). US conducts cyberattack against Iranian ‘spy ship' to deter Houthi attacks in Red Sea The US military recently conducted a cyberattack against an alleged 'Iranian spy ship' which had been operating near the Chinese military base in Djibouti. The ship, named the MV Behshad, had allegedly been collecting information on cargo vessels in the Red Sea and communicating the same to the Houthi rebels in Yemen. Explained: Who is Stormy Daniels, the ex-porn star behind Trump hush money case trial? In another blow to Donald Trump, who is vying to reclaim the top government post in the world's biggest economy, a judge on Thursday (Feb 15) ruled that the New York 'hush money' trial will begin on March 25. Judge Juan Merchan denied the former US president's motion to dismiss the case related to 2016 hush money payments to adult film star Stormy Daniels. IND vs ENG: Anil Kumble full of praise for Ravi Ashwin after joining 500-wicket club, says 'very proud of you' It was a monumental day for India’s Ravichandran Ashwin after the veteran spinner scalped his 500th Test wicket against England on Day 2 of the Rajkot Test on Friday (Feb 16). Ashwin, playing in his 98th Test match achieved the feat when he got the better of Zak Crawley in the 14th over and became just the second Indian bowler after Anil Kumble to reach the 500-wicket mark. French actor Gerard Depardieu faces new sex assault complaint A woman has accused French screen legend Gerard Depardieu of allegedly sexually assaulting her during a 2014 film shoot, according to the police complaint and a newspaper report.

Top 10 world news: Putin critic Navalny reportedly dead; India-Taiwan move forward with key pact, and more

<p>Alexei Navalny death: In a poignant social media post on Sunday (Feb 18), Yulia Navalny, the wife of late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, declared her love alongside a touching image of the couple enjoying a moment together. The post on Instagram came two days after Navalny's death was announced by the jail authorities at the "Polar Wolf" penal colony in Kharp, where he was serving a 19-year sentence.</p>

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<p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C3fWMtVNG5g/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by Юлия Навальная (@yulia_navalnaya)</a></p>
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<p>According to the prison service, the 47-year-old former lawyer fell unconscious and succumbed to an undisclosed cause on Friday (Feb 16) after a walk at the remote penal facility.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier on Feb 16, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Yulia expressed her lack of trust in Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russian government.</p>

<p>"We cannot trust Putin and the Putin government. They always lie," a solemn and tearful Yulia said while calling for the accountability of individuals allegedly responsible for her husband's death.</p>

<p>Amid the Kremlin's silence on the matter, Western leaders, led by US President Joe Biden, paid tribute to Navalny's courage and accused President Vladimir Putin, without citing evidence,&nbsp;for his death. Britain has also pledged consequences for Russia.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-body-found-with-bruises-as-west-holds-putin-responsible-691438">Alexei Navalny’s body found with ‘bruises’ as West holds Putin responsible</a></strong></p>

<p>Yulia Navalnaya also called upon the international community to unite against what she labelled Russia's "horrible regime."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Her statement resonated with the leaders in Munich. She said: "Both this regime and Vladimir Putin must bear personal responsibility for all the terrible things they have been doing to my country, to our country, Russia, in recent years."</p>

<p><strong>Also watch |&nbsp;Alexei Navalny death: Navalny's team confirms death, family demands body 'immediately'</strong></p>

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<p>Alexei Navalny’s mother was reportedly told by Russian authorities that her son died of 'sudden death syndrome'.</p>

<p>"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," Ivan Zhdanov, who directs Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, said on social media platform X.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Alexei Navalny death: In a poignant social media post on Sunday (Feb 18), Yulia Navalny, the wife of late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, declared her love alongside a touching image of the couple enjoying a moment together.

Alexei Navalny death: In a poignant social media post on Sunday (Feb 18), Yulia Navalny, the wife of late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, declared her love alongside a touching image of the couple enjoying a moment together. The post on Instagram came two days after Navalny's death was announced by the jail authorities at the "Polar Wolf" penal colony in Kharp, where he was serving a 19-year sentence. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Юлия Навальная (@yulia_navalnaya) × According to the prison service, the 47-year-old former lawyer fell unconscious and succumbed to an undisclosed cause on Friday (Feb 16) after a walk at the remote penal facility. Earlier on Feb 16, speaking at the Munich Security Conference, Yulia expressed her lack of trust in Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russian government. "We cannot trust Putin and the Putin government. They always lie," a solemn and tearful Yulia said while calling for the accountability of individuals allegedly responsible for her husband's death. Amid the Kremlin's silence on the matter, Western leaders, led by US President Joe Biden, paid tribute to Navalny's courage and accused President Vladimir Putin, without citing evidence, for his death. Britain has also pledged consequences for Russia. Also read | Alexei Navalny’s body found with ‘bruises’ as West holds Putin responsible Yulia Navalnaya also called upon the international community to unite against what she labelled Russia's "horrible regime." Her statement resonated with the leaders in Munich. She said: "Both this regime and Vladimir Putin must bear personal responsibility for all the terrible things they have been doing to my country, to our country, Russia, in recent years." Also watch | Alexei Navalny death: Navalny's team confirms death, family demands body 'immediately' × Alexei Navalny’s mother was reportedly told by Russian authorities that her son died of 'sudden death syndrome'. "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," Ivan Zhdanov, who directs Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, said on social media platform X. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin critic Navalny’s wife posts photo on social media for the first time after husband’s death

<p>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.</p>

<p>Western leaders, including US President Joe Biden, have held Russia’s Vladimir Putin responsible for Navalny’s death.</p>

<p>"What has happened to Navalny is yet more proof of Putin's brutality no one should be fooled not in Russia not at home not anywhere in the world," said Biden.</p>

<p>Moscow has responded to these allegations by calling them “unacceptable and absolutely rabid.”</p>

<h2><strong>‘Cameras in the prison were not operating’</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, Gulagu.net, a human rights group that focuses on the rights of prisoners in Russia, has claimed that cameras in the prison where Navalny was being held were not operating on the day of his death.</p>

<p>The rights group claims that the officials of the Federal Security Service (FSB) visited the prison two days before and dismantled listening devices and hidden cameras “that could have recorded what happened to Alexey Navalny on February 15-16.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Alexei Navalny death: Navalny's team confirms death, family demands body 'immediately'</strong></p>

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<p>The group further claimed that on the evening of February 16, the officials conducting the autopsy were directed to declare that bruises occurred only after Navalny’s death.</p>

<p>WION was not able to verify these claims independently.</p>

<h2><strong>The official version</strong></h2>

<p>Alexei Navalny’s mother was reportedly told by Russian authorities that her son died of ‘sudden death syndrome.’</p>

<p>"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," Ivan Zhdanov, who directs Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, said on social media platform X.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:&nbsp;<a data-jsarwt="1" data-usg="AOvVaw1WPNNH7fjwh_C3Ktq11u7O" data-ved="2ahUKEwjao7KD8LSEAxVryDgGHUCDBjkQxfQBKAB6BAgREAE" href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-mother-was-told-he-died-by-sudden-death-syndrome-says-leaders-team-691308" jsname="YKoRaf">Authorities told Alexei Navalny’s mother that he died due to ‘sudden death syndrome’</a></strong></p>

<p>According to details, 'sudden death syndrome" is a vague term for different cardiac syndromes that cause sudden cardiac arrest and death.</p>

<h2><strong>Brazil's Lula says should avoid accusations</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;Brazilian&nbsp;President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Sunday (Feb 18) said&nbsp;a thorough investigation should be conducted&nbsp;into the death of&nbsp;Navalny before making any accusations.</p>

<p>Speaking at a press conference after attending an African Union summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Lula said refraining from taking a stance on the death at this moment was a matter of "common sense."</p>

<p>"A citizen died in prison, I don't know if he was ill or had any issues," Lula said. "To make an accusation is to trivialize. I hope that a coroner will provide an explanation for why the individual died, that's all," he added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


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’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. Western leaders, including US President Joe Biden, have held Russia’s Vladimir Putin responsible for Navalny’s death. "What has happened to Navalny is yet more proof of Putin's brutality no one should be fooled not in Russia not at home not anywhere in the world," said Biden. Moscow has responded to these allegations by calling them “unacceptable and absolutely rabid.” ‘Cameras in the prison were not operating’ Meanwhile, Gulagu.net, a human rights group that focuses on the rights of prisoners in Russia, has claimed that cameras in the prison where Navalny was being held were not operating on the day of his death. The rights group claims that the officials of the Federal Security Service (FSB) visited the prison two days before and dismantled listening devices and hidden cameras “that could have recorded what happened to Alexey Navalny on February 15-16.” Watch: Alexei Navalny death: Navalny's team confirms death, family demands body 'immediately' × The group further claimed that on the evening of February 16, the officials conducting the autopsy were directed to declare that bruises occurred only after Navalny’s death. WION was not able to verify these claims independently. The official version Alexei Navalny’s mother was reportedly told by Russian authorities that her son died of ‘sudden death syndrome.’ "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," Ivan Zhdanov, who directs Navalny's Anti-Corruption Foundation, said on social media platform X. Also read: Authorities told Alexei Navalny’s mother that he died due to ‘sudden death syndrome’ According to details, 'sudden death syndrome" is a vague term for different cardiac syndromes that cause sudden cardiac arrest and death. Brazil's Lula says should avoid accusations Meanwhile, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on Sunday (Feb 18) said a thorough investigation should be conducted into the death of Navalny before making any accusations. Speaking at a press conference after attending an African Union summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Lula said refraining from taking a stance on the death at this moment was a matter of "common sense." "A citizen died in prison, I don't know if he was ill or had any issues," Lula said. "To make an accusation is to trivialize. I hope that a coroner will provide an explanation for why the individual died, that's all," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

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

<p><strong>Joe Biden on Alexei Navalny Death:</strong> US President Joe Biden on Friday (Feb 16th) said he was "not surprised" by the reported death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Addressing the press at the White House, the American President blamed Russian President Vladimir Putin for Navalny's death, and said that it was proof of his (Putin's) "brutality".</p>

<h2><strong>A powerful voice for the truth (Joe Biden on&nbsp;Navalny's&nbsp;death)</strong></h2>

<p>Describing the&nbsp;Kremlin critic Navalny as a "powerful voice for the truth", Biden said "He bravely stood up to the corruption, the violence and all the bad things the (Vladimir) Putin government was doing."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Saying that he was "outraged", but "not surprised" by the news, Biden said that they do not yet know exactly what happened to the Russian opposition leader. However, he said that it was the fault of Putin and his "thugs".</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<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></strong></p>

<p>"Russian authorities are going to tell their own story," he said, adding "But make no mistake, Putin is responsible for Navalny's death. Putin is responsible."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"What has happened to Navalny is yet more proof of Putin's brutality. No one should be fooled," said Biden in the televised remarks.</p>

<h2><strong>Will the US respond?</strong></h2>

<p>The US President said that he was "looking at options" on additional steps to punish Russia. However, he did not elaborate further.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Alexei Navalny, Putin critic and Russian opposition leader dies in jail</strong></p>

<p><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/alexei-navalny-putin-critic-and-russian-opposition-leader-dies-in-jail-690985/embed" width="560"></iframe></p>

<p>Hailing Alexei Navalny's achievements, Biden said "Even in prison he was a powerful voice for the truth."&nbsp;</p>

<p>"God bless Alexei Navalny, his courage will not be forgotten," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Reason of Alexei Navalny's death</strong></h2>

<p>In a statement,&nbsp;Russia's federal penitentiary service said that the opposition leader Navalny "felt bad after a walk, almost immediately losing consciousness." They added that while "Medical staff arrived immediately and an ambulance team was called," resuscitation measures "did not yield positive results."</p>

<p>"Paramedics confirmed the death of the convict. The causes of death are being established," it added.</p>

<p>As of now, Navalny's team is yet to confirm reports of his death. Taking to&nbsp;X, Navalny's deputy Ivan Zhdanov said relatives of Navalny should be notified of his demise&nbsp;within 24 hours, but&nbsp;no notifications have been made.&nbsp;His aide Leonid Volkov said that he was unable to confirm the death, adding that Navalny's&nbsp;lawyer was travelling to the site of the prison where he had been serving his sentence.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Joe Biden on Alexei Navalny Death: US President Joe Biden on Friday (Feb 16th) said he was "not surprised" by the reported death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

Joe Biden on Alexei Navalny Death: US President Joe Biden on Friday (Feb 16th) said he was "not surprised" by the reported death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny. Addressing the press at the White House, the American President blamed Russian President Vladimir Putin for Navalny's death, and said that it was proof of his (Putin's) "brutality". A powerful voice for the truth (Joe Biden on Navalny's death) Describing the Kremlin critic Navalny as a "powerful voice for the truth", Biden said "He bravely stood up to the corruption, the violence and all the bad things the (Vladimir) Putin government was doing." Saying that he was "outraged", but "not surprised" by the news, Biden said that they do not yet know exactly what happened to the Russian opposition leader. However, he said that it was the fault of Putin and his "thugs". Also read | 'Brutal murder': World reacts to reports of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's death "Russian authorities are going to tell their own story," he said, adding "But make no mistake, Putin is responsible for Navalny's death. Putin is responsible." "What has happened to Navalny is yet more proof of Putin's brutality. No one should be fooled," said Biden in the televised remarks. Will the US respond? The US President said that he was "looking at options" on additional steps to punish Russia. However, he did not elaborate further. Watch | Alexei Navalny, Putin critic and Russian opposition leader dies in jail Hailing Alexei Navalny's achievements, Biden said "Even in prison he was a powerful voice for the truth." "God bless Alexei Navalny, his courage will not be forgotten," he added. Reason of Alexei Navalny's death In a statement, Russia's federal penitentiary service said that the opposition leader Navalny "felt bad after a walk, almost immediately losing consciousness." They added that while "Medical staff arrived immediately and an ambulance team was called," resuscitation measures "did not yield positive results." "Paramedics confirmed the death of the convict. The causes of death are being established," it added. As of now, Navalny's team is yet to confirm reports of his death. Taking to X, Navalny's deputy Ivan Zhdanov said relatives of Navalny should be notified of his demise within 24 hours, but no notifications have been made. His aide Leonid Volkov said that he was unable to confirm the death, adding that Navalny's lawyer was travelling to the site of the prison where he had been serving his sentence. (With inputs from agencies)

Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's death 'proof of Putin's brutality,' says US President Joe Biden

<p>After&nbsp;reports of Alexei Navalny's death surfaced on state media, his wife on Friday (Feb 16) said that Russian&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin should know that he would be punished for all that he had done with the country, her family and her husband.</p>

<p>"We cannot trust Putin and the Putin government. They always lie," Yulia Navalnaya told the Munich Security Conference.</p>

<p>"But if this is true, I'd like Putin and all his staff... to know that they will be punished for what they have done with our country, with my family and with my husband," Navalnaya said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We should fight this horrific regime in Russia today. Vladimir Putin should be personally held for all the atrocities they have committed in our country in the last years," she added.</p>

<p>Navalnaya met US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Munich who extended his condolences to her and reiterated&nbsp;that Russia was "responsible" for Navalny's death.</p>

<p><strong>Also read:</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-life-of-defiance-and-mysterious-disappearance-690989">Alexei Navalny's life of defiance and mysterious disappearance</a></p>

<h2><strong>'He was healthy and happy', says Navalny's mother</strong></h2>

<p>Navalny's mother, Liumila Navalnaya, said that she did not want to hear any condolences and that her son was "alive, healthy and happy" the last time she saw him, which was on Feb 12.</p>

<p>"I don't want to hear any condolences. I saw my son on the 12th at the (prison) colony, we had a meeting. He was alive, healthy and cheerful," she wrote on Facebook, as per Novaya Gazeta newspaper.</p>

<h2><strong>Navalny was cracking jokes in court a day before&nbsp;death</strong></h2>

<p>Navalny jokingly passed remarks about his depleting funds and the judge's salary in the court a day before the reports of his death emerged.</p>

<p>The 47-year-old Kremlin critic, who gave his testimony via a video link on Thursday (Feb 15), appeared cheerful.</p>

<p>The other officials present in the court also seemed to enjoy the banter as they were captured grinning along with him as per news agency Reuters.</p>

<p>In his last appearance, Russia's most famous opposition leader said, "Your Honour, I will send you my personal account number so that you can use your huge salary as a federal judge to 'warm up' my personal account because I am running out of money."</p>

<p>Later on Thursday, after the court session&nbsp;reportedly convened, Navalny said that he had been handed 15 days in solitary confinement.</p>

<p>"The Yamal prison decided to break Vladimir's record of fawning and pleasing the Moscow authorities. They just gave me 15 days in solitary confinement," he wrote on X.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="ru">Ямальская колония решила побить владимирский рекорд холуйства и угождения московскому начальству. Только что дали 15 суток ШИЗО. То есть это 4-ое ШИЗО за менее чем 2 месяца, что я у них. Жестят.</p>
— Alexey Navalny (@navalny) <a href="https://twitter.com/navalny/status/1757771750958362690?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 14, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>"This is the fourth solitary confinement spell in less than 2 months that I have been with them," Navalny added.</p>

<p>This was his last message on the social media platform.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After reports of Alexei Navalny's death surfaced on state media, his wife on Friday (Feb 16) said that Russian President Vladimir Putin should know that he would be punished for all that he had done with the country, her family and her husband.

After reports of Alexei Navalny's death surfaced on state media, his wife on Friday (Feb 16) said that Russian President Vladimir Putin should know that he would be punished for all that he had done with the country, her family and her husband. "We cannot trust Putin and the Putin government. They always lie," Yulia Navalnaya told the Munich Security Conference. "But if this is true, I'd like Putin and all his staff... to know that they will be punished for what they have done with our country, with my family and with my husband," Navalnaya said. "We should fight this horrific regime in Russia today. Vladimir Putin should be personally held for all the atrocities they have committed in our country in the last years," she added. Navalnaya met US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in Munich who extended his condolences to her and reiterated that Russia was "responsible" for Navalny's death. Also read: Alexei Navalny's life of defiance and mysterious disappearance 'He was healthy and happy', says Navalny's mother Navalny's mother, Liumila Navalnaya, said that she did not want to hear any condolences and that her son was "alive, healthy and happy" the last time she saw him, which was on Feb 12. "I don't want to hear any condolences. I saw my son on the 12th at the (prison) colony, we had a meeting. He was alive, healthy and cheerful," she wrote on Facebook, as per Novaya Gazeta newspaper. Navalny was cracking jokes in court a day before death Navalny jokingly passed remarks about his depleting funds and the judge's salary in the court a day before the reports of his death emerged. The 47-year-old Kremlin critic, who gave his testimony via a video link on Thursday (Feb 15), appeared cheerful. The other officials present in the court also seemed to enjoy the banter as they were captured grinning along with him as per news agency Reuters. In his last appearance, Russia's most famous opposition leader said, "Your Honour, I will send you my personal account number so that you can use your huge salary as a federal judge to 'warm up' my personal account because I am running out of money." Later on Thursday, after the court session reportedly convened, Navalny said that he had been handed 15 days in solitary confinement. "The Yamal prison decided to break Vladimir's record of fawning and pleasing the Moscow authorities. They just gave me 15 days in solitary confinement," he wrote on X. Ямальская колония решила побить владимирский рекорд холуйства и угождения московскому начальству. Только что дали 15 суток ШИЗО. То есть это 4-ое ШИЗО за менее чем 2 месяца, что я у них. Жестят. — Alexey Navalny (@navalny) February 14, 2024 × "This is the fourth solitary confinement spell in less than 2 months that I have been with them," Navalny added. This was his last message on the social media platform. (With inputs from agencies)

'Putin will not go unpunished', says Alexei Navalny's wife after reports of his death surface

<p><strong>Alexei Navalny Death News:&nbsp;</strong>Alexei&nbsp;Navalny, a vociferous critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin&nbsp;has died in jail,&nbsp;as per reports by the state media.</p>

<p>Since December of last year, the 47-year-old Kremlin critic had&nbsp;been serving a 19-year term at a prison situated&nbsp;in a desolate penal colony above the Arctic Circle.</p>

<p>Reports of Navalny's death comes almost&nbsp;a day after&nbsp;Michael Carpenter, the US&nbsp;Ambassador to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe on X said that the Russian opposition leader has once again been "thrown into a punitive isolation cell for an unimaginable 27th time".&nbsp;According to Carpenter, Navalny faced a 15-day stint in isolation.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Reports indicate Alexey Navalny has been thrown into a punitive isolation cell for an unimaginable 27th time. Navalny faces a 15-day stint in solitary confinement, adding to the 293 days he's already endured. We condemn this ongoing assault on <a href="https://twitter.com/navalny?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@navalny</a>'s rights and we call for… <a href="https://t.co/DB3dzT70RJ">pic.twitter.com/DB3dzT70RJ</a></p>
— Michael Carpenter, U.S. Ambassador to the OSCE (@USAmbOSCE) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbOSCE/status/1758159512849039525?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>Reports of death yet to be confirmed</strong></h2>

<p>As of now, Navalny's team is yet to confirm reports of his death. Even as the world awaits confirmation, the reports of his death have evoked shock and sorrow.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-opposition-politician-alexei-navalny-is-dead-reports-690945">Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny dies in prison: Reports</a></strong></p>

<p>On X, <em><strong>Navalny's deputy Ivan Zhdanov</strong></em>, said relatives of Navalny should be notified of his death within 24 hours, but&nbsp;no notifications have been made.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="ru">В течение суток родственников обязаны уведомить, если это правда. Уведомлений не было. Никаких комментариев у нас кроме этих нет. <a href="https://t.co/TWwUa53FH0">https://t.co/TWwUa53FH0</a></p>
— Ivan Zhdanov (@ioannZH) <a href="https://twitter.com/ioannZH/status/1758463748245790961?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><em><strong>Navalny's aide Leonid Volkov</strong></em> said that he was unable to confirm the death, adding that the opposition leader's&nbsp;lawyer was travelling to the site of the prison where he had been serving his sentence.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Russian authorities publish a confession that they killed Alexey Navalny in prison.<br />
<br />
We do not have any way to confirm it or to prove this isn’t true.<br />
<br />
Navalny’s lawyer is on the way to Harp.</p>
— Leonid Volkov (@leonidvolkov) <a href="https://twitter.com/leonidvolkov/status/1758456557770101005?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><em><strong>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky</strong></em> during a press conference with&nbsp;German&nbsp;Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that Navalny was "obviously killed by Putin".</p>

<p>"Obviously, he was killed by Putin, like thousands of others who have been tormented, tortured because of this one person. Putin doesn't care who dies, as long as he retains his position. And that is why he must not keep anything - Putin must lose everything, he must not retain anything and must be held accountable for what he has done," he said, as reported by Reuters.</p>

<p><em><strong>United States Vice President Kamala Harris</strong></em> said her nation was&nbsp;working to confirm the reports of Alexei Navalny's death, adding that it would be a further sign of Russian President Vladimir Putin's brutality.</p>

<p><strong><em>Ukraine's presidential aide Andriy Yermak</em></strong> on X declared that Russian President Putin is "afraid of any competition," and that "the lives of Russians are nothing to him."&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">putin is the ultimate evil who is afraid of any competition. The lives of russians are nothing to him.<br />
<br />
Everyone who calls for negotiations must realize that he cannot be trusted. The only language he understands is force.</p>
— Andriy Yermak (@AndriyYermak) <a href="https://twitter.com/AndriyYermak/status/1758466812885217699?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Calling it "terrible news," and a "huge tragedy," for the people of Russia, <em><strong>British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak</strong></em>, in a post on X said, "As the fiercest advocate for Russian democracy, Alexei Navalny demonstrated incredible courage throughout his life."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">This is terrible news. As the fiercest advocate for Russian democracy, Alexei Navalny demonstrated incredible courage throughout his life.<br />
<br />
My thoughts are with his wife and the people of Russia, for whom this is a huge tragedy. <a href="https://t.co/AQvQQW5GBh">https://t.co/AQvQQW5GBh</a></p>
— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) <a href="https://twitter.com/RishiSunak/status/1758463245671690574?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexei-navalnys-life-of-defiance-and-mysterious-disappearance-690989">Alexei Navalny's life of defiance and mysterious disappearance</a></strong></p>

<p><em><strong>France's Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné </strong></em>taking&nbsp;to&nbsp;X&nbsp;to pay&nbsp;condolences on behalf of his country wrote, "Alexei Navalny paid with his life for his resistance to a system of oppression."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="fr">Alexei Navalny a payé de sa vie sa résistance à un système d’oppression.<br />
<br />
Sa mort en colonie pénitentiaire nous rappelle la réalité du régime de Vladimir Poutine.<br />
<br />
À sa famille, ses proches et au peuple russe, la France présente ses condoléances.</p>
— Stéphane Séjourné (@steph_sejourne) <a href="https://twitter.com/steph_sejourne/status/1758459000817877102?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Condemning the death, <em><strong>German Chancellor Olaf Scholz</strong>, </em>during a news conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky<em>&nbsp;</em>said that the Russian opposition leader paid for his courage with his life, and said Russia "is no longer a democracy, and has not been for a long time now."</p>

<p>"Anyone who voices criticism, who stands up for democracy, must fear for their safety and their lives," he said.</p>

<p>"It has not yet been conclusively confirmed, but we must assume with a high degree of probability that it is true, namely that Mr Navalny has died in a Russian prison. And that is something that is very depressing. I met Mr Navalny here in Berlin when he was in Germany trying to recover from the poisoning attack and I also spoke to him about the great courage it took to go back to the country," he further said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Alexei Navalny, Putin critic and Russian opposition leader dies in jail</strong></p>

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<p><strong><em>Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni</em></strong>, as per an AFP report, said that Navalny's death in prison&nbsp;was a warning to the world.&nbsp;"The death of Alexei Navalny during his detention is another sad page that acts as a warning to the international community," she&nbsp;said in a statement. She also offered her condolences and expressed a hope that "this disturbing event will be fully clarified".</p>

<p><em><strong>Charles Michel, the&nbsp;President of the European Council,</strong></em> called the death an "ultimate sacrifice".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Alexei <a href="https://twitter.com/navalny?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@navalny</a> fought for the values of freedom and democracy. For his ideals, he made the ultimate sacrifice.<br />
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The EU holds the Russian regime for sole responsible for this tragic death.<br />
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I extend my deepest condolences to his family. And to those who fight for democracy around…</p>
— Charles Michel (@CharlesMichel) <a href="https://twitter.com/CharlesMichel/status/1758461749747966150?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p><em><strong>Edgars Rinkēvičs, the President of&nbsp;Latvia,</strong></em> labelled the reported death a "brutal murder" and said: "Whatever your thoughts about Alexey @Navalny as the politician, he was just brutally murdered by the Kremlin. That’s a fact and that is something one should know about the true nature of Russia’s current regime."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Whatever your thoughts about Alexey <a href="https://twitter.com/navalny?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Navalny</a> as the politician, he was just brutally murdered by the Kremlin. That’s a fact and that is something one should know about the true nature of Russia’s current regime. My condolences to the family and friends.</p>
— Edgars Rinkēvičs (@edgarsrinkevics) <a href="https://twitter.com/edgarsrinkevics/status/1758456656730423305?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<p>Reacting to the news,<em> <strong>former US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi</strong>,</em> as she arrived for the Munich Security Conference, said, "I think we have to find out more, but in any case, it is a horrible tragedy if it is so. But his imprisonment is a horrible tragedy."</p>

<p>"It would be a horrible thing. Starvation, lack of care under prison conditions, is that what he died from or you think it was an affirmative act? I think we have to find out more, but in any case it is a horrible tragedy if it is so. But his imprisonment is a horrible tragedy. Period," she added, as reported by Reuters.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em><strong>Joshua Fenton-Glynn, Cabinet Member, Adult Services and Wellbeing, UK</strong></em> said that "Navalny's bravery will inspire others."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">The bravery to speak out against a government completely comfortable with killing their opponents is truly unimaginable. Navalny’s bravery will inspire others. <a href="https://t.co/WP9Hl6onx0">https://t.co/WP9Hl6onx0</a></p>
— Josh Fenton-Glynn (@JoshFG) <a href="https://twitter.com/JoshFG/status/1758456350458147298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2><strong>How did Navalny&nbsp;die? (Alexei Navalny Death Reason)</strong></h2>

<p><span style="font-size: 15px;">In a statement,&nbsp;Russia's federal penitentiary service said that the Russian leader Navalny "felt bad after a walk, almost immediately losing consciousness." They added that while "Medical staff arrived immediately and an ambulance team was called," resuscitation measures "did not yield positive results."</span></p>

<p>"Paramedics confirmed the death of the convict. The causes of death are being established," it added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Alexei Navalny Death News: Alexei Navalny, a vociferous critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin has died in jail, as per reports by the state media. Since December of last year, the 47-year-old Kremlin critic had been serving a 19-year term at a prison situated in a desolate penal colony above the Arctic Circle.

Alexei Navalny Death News: Alexei Navalny, a vociferous critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin has died in jail, as per reports by the state media. Since December of last year, the 47-year-old Kremlin critic had been serving a 19-year term at a prison situated in a desolate penal colony above the Arctic Circle. Reports of Navalny's death comes almost a day after Michael Carpenter, the US Ambassador to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe on X said that the Russian opposition leader has once again been "thrown into a punitive isolation cell for an unimaginable 27th time". According to Carpenter, Navalny faced a 15-day stint in isolation. Reports indicate Alexey Navalny has been thrown into a punitive isolation cell for an unimaginable 27th time. Navalny faces a 15-day stint in solitary confinement, adding to the 293 days he's already endured. We condemn this ongoing assault on @navalny's rights and we call for… pic.twitter.com/DB3dzT70RJ — Michael Carpenter, U.S. Ambassador to the OSCE (@USAmbOSCE) February 15, 2024 × Reports of death yet to be confirmed As of now, Navalny's team is yet to confirm reports of his death. Even as the world awaits confirmation, the reports of his death have evoked shock and sorrow. Also read | Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny dies in prison: Reports On X, Navalny's deputy Ivan Zhdanov, said relatives of Navalny should be notified of his death within 24 hours, but no notifications have been made. В течение суток родственников обязаны уведомить, если это правда. Уведомлений не было. Никаких комментариев у нас кроме этих нет. https://t.co/TWwUa53FH0 — Ivan Zhdanov (@ioannZH) February 16, 2024 × Navalny's aide Leonid Volkov said that he was unable to confirm the death, adding that the opposition leader's lawyer was travelling to the site of the prison where he had been serving his sentence. Russian authorities publish a confession that they killed Alexey Navalny in prison. We do not have any way to confirm it or to prove this isn’t true. Navalny’s lawyer is on the way to Harp. — Leonid Volkov (@leonidvolkov) February 16, 2024 × Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a press conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said that Navalny was "obviously killed by Putin". "Obviously, he was killed by Putin, like thousands of others who have been tormented, tortured because of this one person. Putin doesn't care who dies, as long as he retains his position. And that is why he must not keep anything - Putin must lose everything, he must not retain anything and must be held accountable for what he has done," he said, as reported by Reuters. United States Vice President Kamala Harris said her nation was working to confirm the reports of Alexei Navalny's death, adding that it would be a further sign of Russian President Vladimir Putin's brutality. Ukraine's presidential aide Andriy Yermak on X declared that Russian President Putin is "afraid of any competition," and that "the lives of Russians are nothing to him." putin is the ultimate evil who is afraid of any competition. The lives of russians are nothing to him. Everyone who calls for negotiations must realize that he cannot be trusted. The only language he understands is force. — Andriy Yermak (@AndriyYermak) February 16, 2024 × Calling it "terrible news," and a "huge tragedy," for the people of Russia, British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, in a post on X said, "As the fiercest advocate for Russian democracy, Alexei Navalny demonstrated incredible courage throughout his life." This is terrible news. As the fiercest advocate for Russian democracy, Alexei Navalny demonstrated incredible courage throughout his life. My thoughts are with his wife and the people of Russia, for whom this is a huge tragedy. https://t.co/AQvQQW5GBh — Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) February 16, 2024 × Also read | Alexei Navalny's life of defiance and mysterious disappearance France's Foreign Minister Stéphane Séjourné taking to X to pay condolences on behalf of his country wrote, "Alexei Navalny paid with his life for his resistance to a system of oppression." Alexei Navalny a payé de sa vie sa résistance à un système d’oppression. Sa mort en colonie pénitentiaire nous rappelle la réalité du régime de Vladimir Poutine. À sa famille, ses proches et au peuple russe, la France présente ses condoléances. — Stéphane Séjourné (@steph_sejourne) February 16, 2024 × Condemning the death, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, during a news conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that the Russian opposition leader paid for his courage with his life, and said Russia "is no longer a democracy, and has not been for a long time now." "Anyone who voices criticism, who stands up for democracy, must fear for their safety and their lives," he said. "It has not yet been conclusively confirmed, but we must assume with a high degree of probability that it is true, namely that Mr Navalny has died in a Russian prison. And that is something that is very depressing. I met Mr Navalny here in Berlin when he was in Germany trying to recover from the poisoning attack and I also spoke to him about the great courage it took to go back to the country," he further said. Watch | Alexei Navalny, Putin critic and Russian opposition leader dies in jail × Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, as per an AFP report, said that Navalny's death in prison was a warning to the world. "The death of Alexei Navalny during his detention is another sad page that acts as a warning to the international community," she said in a statement. She also offered her condolences and expressed a hope that "this disturbing event will be fully clarified". Charles Michel, the President of the European Council, called the death an "ultimate sacrifice". Alexei @navalny fought for the values of freedom and democracy. For his ideals, he made the ultimate sacrifice. The EU holds the Russian regime for sole responsible for this tragic death. I extend my deepest condolences to his family. And to those who fight for democracy around… — Charles Michel (@CharlesMichel) February 16, 2024 × Edgars Rinkēvičs, the President of Latvia, labelled the reported death a "brutal murder" and said: "Whatever your thoughts about Alexey @Navalny as the politician, he was just brutally murdered by the Kremlin. That’s a fact and that is something one should know about the true nature of Russia’s current regime." Whatever your thoughts about Alexey @Navalny as the politician, he was just brutally murdered by the Kremlin. That’s a fact and that is something one should know about the true nature of Russia’s current regime. My condolences to the family and friends. — Edgars Rinkēvičs (@edgarsrinkevics) February 16, 2024 × Reacting to the news, former US House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi, as she arrived for the Munich Security Conference, said, "I think we have to find out more, but in any case, it is a horrible tragedy if it is so. But his imprisonment is a horrible tragedy." "It would be a horrible thing. Starvation, lack of care under prison conditions, is that what he died from or you think it was an affirmative act? I think we have to find out more, but in any case it is a horrible tragedy if it is so. But his imprisonment is a horrible tragedy. Period," she added, as reported by Reuters. Joshua Fenton-Glynn, Cabinet Member, Adult Services and Wellbeing, UK said that "Navalny's bravery will inspire others." The bravery to speak out against a government completely comfortable with killing their opponents is truly unimaginable. Navalny’s bravery will inspire others. https://t.co/WP9Hl6onx0 — Josh Fenton-Glynn (@JoshFG) February 16, 2024 × How did Navalny die? (Alexei Navalny Death Reason) In a statement, Russia's federal penitentiary service said that the Russian leader Navalny "felt bad after a walk, almost immediately losing consciousness." They added that while "Medical staff arrived immediately and an ambulance team was called," resuscitation measures "did not yield positive results." "Paramedics confirmed the death of the convict. The causes of death are being established," it added. (With inputs from agencies)

'Brutal murder': World reacts to reports of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny's death

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