Russia Accused of Assassinating Alexei Navalny with Deadly Frog Poison
Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Sweden, and the Netherlands have jointly accused the Russian government of assassinating opposition leader Alexei Navalny. The accusation centers around the use of epibatidina, a potent neurotoxin derived from poison dart frogs native to South America.
The Deadly Toxin: Epibatidina
Analysis of samples taken from Navalny confirmed the presence of epibatidina, a substance considered a chemical weapon under international law. This toxin is not naturally found in Russia, strengthening the claim of external involvement. The governments stated that Russia “had the means, motive, and opportunity to administer this lethal poison” even as Navalny was imprisoned.
A History of Poisonings
This isn’t the first time poisoning has been linked to Navalny. He was previously poisoned in 2018 in Salisbury, UK, with the nerve agent Novichok, and again while in a Russian Arctic prison, according to the joint statement. Authorities believe only the Russian state possessed the capability and willingness to carry out these attacks.
International Condemnation and Investigation
The accusing nations have announced they will take the case to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), citing a violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention. British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper emphasized that Russia viewed Navalny as a threat and demonstrated “the despicable weapons at its disposal and the overwhelming fear of political opposition.”
Navalny’s Widow Speaks Out
Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of Alexei Navalny, has also asserted that laboratory tests confirm her husband was poisoned in prison. She publicly accused the Kremlin of ordering his assassination. The official Russian explanation of Navalny’s death – sudden death due to an arrhythmia – has been widely disputed by family, opposition figures, and Western governments.
Putin’s Response and Alleged Prisoner Swap
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated he had approved a prisoner swap involving Navalny shortly before his death, describing the event as a “sad occurrence.” However, Navalny’s allies contend that Putin deliberately obstructed the exchange, facilitating his death.
FAQ
What is epibatidina? Epibatidina is a highly toxic neurotoxin found in the skin of poison dart frogs native to South America.
Where does epibatidina arrive from? The toxin originates from poison dart frogs in regions of South and Central America and is not naturally found in Russia.
What are the accusations against Russia? Five European countries accuse the Russian government of assassinating Alexei Navalny by poisoning him with epibatidina.
Has Russia responded to the accusations? Russia initially claimed Navalny died of natural causes, a claim disputed by the investigating nations.
Pro Tip: The use of a rare and difficult-to-trace toxin like epibatidina suggests a deliberate and sophisticated operation, indicating state-level involvement.
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