Allegations of Abuse and Accusations Against Putin

Yulia Navalnaya, the wife of the late Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny, has claimed that her husband’s body was mistreated while awaiting burial, accusing Russian President Vladimir Putin of his murder.

Accusations at the European Parliament

Navalnaya made the accusations during her address to the European Parliament in Strasbourg, stating that Navalny had endured three years of torture, isolation, starvation, and denial of contact with loved ones on Putin’s orders before his death.

Allegations of Post-Mortem Abuse

She further alleged that even after Navalny’s death, his body was subjected to abuse, along with pressure on his mother to hold a private funeral. However, Russian officials eventually relented eight days after his passing.

Kremlin’s Denial and Lack of Response

The Kremlin has consistently denied any involvement in Navalny’s death and has not responded to these recent allegations made by Navalnaya.

Burial Plans and Concerns

Navalnaya stated that Navalny’s burial would take place in Moscow on Friday but expressed concerns about potential disruptions by Russian authorities, fearing arrests of those paying their respects.

Navalny’s Political Influence and Demands for Change

Navalny, known as Putin’s most prominent critic, died in a Russian penal colony in February, where he was held on politically motivated charges. Western leaders, including US President Joe Biden, have accused Putin of involvement in Navalny’s death.

Calls for Innovation and Action

Navalnaya urged European leaders to move beyond sanctions and emulate her late husband’s innovative approach to challenge Putin’s regime, emphasizing the need for creativity and boldness in opposition efforts.