Five European nations – the U.K., France, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands – have jointly stated that Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny was poisoned with a lethal toxin. Analysis of samples taken from Navalny’s body “conclusively confirmed the presence of epibatidine,” according to a statement released Saturday.
A Rare and Deadly Toxin
Epibatidine is a neurotoxin found in the skin of dart frogs native to South America. The presence of this toxin is particularly significant as it is not naturally found in Russia. Officials state there is “no innocent explanation” for its presence in Navalny’s body.
Kremlin Involvement Alleged
The joint statement asserts that “only the Russian state had the means, motive and opportunity to deploy this lethal toxin to target Navalny during his imprisonment in a Russian penal colony in Siberia.” the five nations hold Russia responsible for Navalny’s death.
Next Steps and Potential Consequences
The U.K. Has announced it will report Russia to the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons, alleging a violation of the Chemical Weapons Convention. Further investigation by the organization is possible. Additional diplomatic pressure from the five nations could also be applied. It is also likely that Yulia Navalnaya, Navalny’s widow, will continue to raise awareness of the circumstances surrounding her husband’s death.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is epibatidine?
Epibatidine is a neurotoxin found in the skin of dart frogs in South America. It is not naturally found in Russia.
Which countries have made this claim?
The U.K., France, Germany, Sweden, and the Netherlands have jointly stated that Navalny was poisoned with epibatidine.
What is the response from Russia?
According to Tass news agency, Moscow has dismissed the finding as “an information campaign.”
What impact will this revelation have on international relations with Russia?
