Thousands Gather To Mourn Alexei Navalny, Defying Putin’s Orders

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Thousands of mourners gathered in Moscow to pay their respects to Alexei Navalny, the prominent Russian opposition leader and fierce critic of President Vladimir Putin. The funeral procession, which took place on Friday, saw an outpouring of grief and solidarity as supporters defied orders from Russian authorities.

Emotional Farewell

Despite the authorities’ directives against taking photos, many mourners captured the procession and the service, with some images shared on Navalny’s YouTube channel. The atmosphere was somber as Navalny’s body was laid to rest in a closed coffin and carried inside the Church of the Icon of the Mother of God Soothe My Sorrows. The line of supporters stretched for several blocks, illustrating the profound impact Navalny had on the Russian people.

Family Presence

Navalny’s parents attended the funeral, holding lit candles in honor of their son. However, his widow, Yulia Navalnaya, and their two children, Daria and Zakhar, were notably absent, likely due to security concerns amidst the ongoing political tensions.

Detentions and Controversy

Despite the peaceful nature of the gathering, Russian authorities detained around four hundred individuals, including some who were simply displaying flowers at Navalny’s memorial sites. The crackdown on mourners further underscored the deep-seated political divisions in the country.

Controversy Surrounding Navalny’s Death

Navalny’s sudden death on February 16 while in a penal colony sparked widespread speculation and accusations against Putin’s regime. While the official cause of death has not been disclosed, Navalny’s mother was informed by prison officials that he suffered from “sudden death syndrome,” a condition associated with heart problems leading to cardiac arrest.

Political Implications

Many believe that Navalny’s passing was orchestrated by Putin, who had imprisoned him and refused to release his body to his family for weeks after his death. The funeral served as a poignant reminder of the ongoing political turmoil and the enduring legacy of Navalny’s fight against corruption and authoritarianism.