Putin unmoved by Navalny's prison death, ends an audacious opposition voice

"We've just learnt about the demise of Alexei Navalny in a Russian prison. Predictably, Putin is to be held accountable, much like he is for thousands of others who have endured torture for the same reasons. During a joint press conference with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, " Putin is unconcerned with who lives or dies, as long as he can cling onto his position," commented Volodymyr Zelensky.

Chancellor Scholz described the entire situation as heartbreaking. He spoke about his acquaintanceship with Navalny during his medical treatment in Berlin after being poisoned.

"The courage it took for him to return to Russia is commendable. Sadly, this courageous decision cost him his life," he stated.

"We are all too aware of the type of regime we are dealing with. Anyone in Russia who criticises or supports democracy must live in fear for their lives and their safety," said Scholz, speaking about Russia.

The prison service announced that Alexei Navalny fell ill after a walk in the prison colony where he was being held. He lost consciousness. Efforts were made to rescue him, but the oppositionist, unfortunately, passed away.

The situation was relayed to the Kremlin. Dmitry Peskov emphasised that the doctors would clarify the cause of Navalny's death.

Navalny's allies have not received direct confirmation from the prison colony about his condition. They claim he was in good health, having seen him with his lawyer on a Wednesday when everything appeared to be in order.

Alexei Navalny was a prominent opposition activist in Russia, leading anti-Putin protests and scrutinising corruption at the highest governmental levels. He was poisoned with Novichok towards the end of 2020 and underwent treatment at a clinic in Berlin. Following his recovery, he courageously returned to Russia, where he was subsequently arrested on alleged financial fraud charges.