Emotional Farewell: Crowds Gather in Moscow for Alexei Navalny's Memorial Service

On a somber Friday in Moscow, a crowd gathered to pay their respects to the late Russian opposition politician, Alexei Navalny. Despite the heavy snow clinging to the streets, over 1,000 people stood outside the church where the memorial service was set to take place.

Unsanctioned Gathering

The gathering took place amidst high political tensions, as the country gears up for presidential elections scheduled to take place from March 15 to 17. The Kremlin's spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, warned that any unsanctioned gatherings in support of Navalny would be deemed illegal.

Controversy Surrounding Navalny's Death

Navalny's death last month while serving a sentence in an arctic prison colony remains shrouded in controversy. While the death certificate cited "natural causes," Navalny's family, supporters, and Western leaders have pointed fingers at Russian President Vladimir Putin, holding him responsible for Navalny's demise. In response, the Kremlin has vehemently denied any involvement.

Memorial Service Unfolds

The memorial service for Navalny provided an opportunity for his supporters to come together and honor his legacy. The event was marked by a heavy police presence, reflecting the underlying tensions in the air.