Russian Protesters Defiantly Chant ‘Putin is a Killer’ Amidst Escalating Tensions

Crowds in Moscow gathered for the funeral of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, shouting ‘Putin is a killer’ amidst widespread belief that the president is responsible for Navalny’s death in a penal colony.

Navalny’s coffin was transported to the Church of the Icon of the Mother of God Soothe My Sorrows in the Maryino district, accompanied by applause and chants from mourners, while riot police monitored the scene.

Despite facing refusals from several churches, the funeral service drew a large turnout, including Western diplomats, with authorities implementing crowd-control measures along the route.

As the final farewell to Navalny’s body took place, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that they had no message to convey to Navalny’s relatives on the day of his funeral.

Navalny’s associate, Leonid Volkov, stressed that Putin would be held accountable for Navalny’s death in court while highlighting the family’s disregard for Putin’s statement.

Mourners expressed their sadness, reflecting that the funeral felt like the burial of Russia that could have been, while another emphasized the importance of honouring Navalny’s memory and continuing his work.

Following a live-streamed service on YouTube, Navalny was laid to rest at Borisovskoye Cemetery, where a significant police presence was observed. Despite his mother’s plea for a dignified burial, Navalny’s cause of death at the Arctic penal colony remains unexplained by authorities.

Funeral arrangements encountered obstacles, with reports of threats against those assisting Navalny’s supporters and challenges in securing a hearse.

Many Western leaders have attributed Navalny’s death to Putin, highlighting his role as a vocal critic of official corruption and government policies. Despite denials from the Kremlin, Navalny’s passing has elicited international condemnation and renewed calls for accountability. As Navalny’s supporters mourn his loss and advocate for justice, the circumstances surrounding his death continue to be subject to global scrutiny and debate.

In summary, the funeral of Alexei Navalny in Moscow was marked by emotional scenes and heightened tensions amid allegations of Putin’s involvement in his demise. Despite logistical challenges and ongoing threats against Navalny’s supporters, his legacy as a prominent anti-corruption figure endures.

The international community’s condemnation of Navalny’s death underscores the imperative of transparency and accountability in the pursuit of justice.

Sola Adeniji

News Reporter, Freelancer, and content creator

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