Reports from Russian sources indicate that Alexei Navalny, a prominent opposition leader, has died in jail.
The Siberian prison service, where he was serving his sentence, confirmed this news.
The Federal Prison Service stated that Navalny fell ill after a walk and subsequently lost consciousness.
Despite efforts from medical professionals, they were unable to save him.
Navalny's Background and Legal Troubles
Navalny, known as one of Vladimir Putin's most vocal critics, survived an assassination attempt involving the Novichok nerve agent.
Prior to his death, he was serving a 19-year prison sentence on extremism charges.
The 47-year-old was last seen in a video link court hearing on Thursday, appearing to be in good spirits.
Reactions to Navalny's Death
News of Navalny's death has sparked shock and anger across Europe.
Latvian President expressed that Navalny was "brutally murdered by the Kremlin," while France stated that he paid with his life for resisting oppression.
Navalny's spokesperson, Kira Yarmysh, expressed uncertainty about his death and mentioned that Navalny's lawyer was en route to the prison where he was held.
Putin's Response and Ongoing Investigations
Russian President Vladimir Putin has been informed of Navalny's death.
Dmitry Peskov, Putin's spokesman, stated that the prison service is conducting checks and investigations.
There are no confirmed details yet regarding the cause of Navalny's death.
Navalny's health had not been a subject of complaint before his apparent death, according to Russia's TASS news agency.
Navalny's Legal Battles and Prison Conditions
Navalny had been involved in numerous legal battles, including lawsuits against his treatment in prison.
He was moved to a penal colony in the Arctic Circle in January, a transfer viewed by his allies as an attempt to silence him.
Despite his imprisonment, Navalny continued to speak out against corruption and organized anti-Kremlin protests.
Navalny's Personal Life and Political Legacy
In his last public post, Navalny sent a heartfelt Valentine's message to his wife, expressing his love despite the distance between them.
His reported death comes just a month before Russia's presidential elections, in which Putin is expected to win, potentially extending his tenure until 2030.
Navalny's death marks a significant loss for the Russian opposition movement.
