Russia’s prominent opposition leader, Alexei Navalny, is reportedly missing from the prison where he was held, as stated by his legal team. Despite attempts to contact Navalny in the IK-6 and IK-7 penal colonies, his whereabouts remain unknown. This development follows President Vladimir Putin’s recent decision to run for the 2024 Presidential Elections.
Navalny, serving a 19-year sentence on charges including creating an extremist community and financing extremist activities, has faced health issues and an alleged assassination attempt. Supporters claim these charges are politically motivated, while Putin denies any involvement.
In addition to challenging Putin’s authority, Navalny led a campaign against the Russian invasion of Ukraine, aiming to turn Russian citizens against the war. The White House expressed concern over Navalny’s reported disappearance, urging his immediate release.