Navalny's parents express gratitude as thousands honor him posthumously

Yulia Navalnaya shared a handwritten letter from the parents of the late Alexei Navalny. They expressed their gratitude to everyone who paid a visit to his grave, noting that such acts of remembrance offer hope.

The widow of the deceased opposition figure reminded everyone that March 9, according to the calendar, is Ecumenical Parents' Saturday. This day is dedicated to commemorating ancestors and the departed.

"Today is Ecumenical Parents' Saturday, a time to honour the memory of those who have passed away. The parents of Alexei would like to thank all who have visited to bid farewell and remember him," Yulia Navalnaya posted on the X platform.

"We extend our thanks to all who empathise and sympathise with us, sharing in our grief. Our deepest gratitude goes to those who continue to visit the gravesite, bringing flowers, writing about Alexei, keeping his memory alive, and praying for him," the letter stated.

At Alexei Navalny's memorial service, Russian police prevented thousands from entering to pay their final respects to the opposition figure. Crowds gathered outside started chanting Navalny's name and slogans like "We are not afraid" and "Russia will be free". Navalny's coffin, en route to the cemetery and adorned with flowers, became a symbol of mourning and resistance.

On February 16, the Russian officials broke the news of Navalny's unexpected passing. He was a leading adversary of President Vladimir Putin. Navalny passed away in a facility located beyond the Arctic Circle, while serving a 19-year sentence. Initially, he could have faced up to 30 years. The authorities declined to release Navalny's body to his family.