Vilnius, Lithuania – Russian opposition activist Leonid Volkov, a prominent ally of the late Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, was allegedly targeted in a violent attack in Lithuania. Volkov, who currently resides in exile in Lithuania, was reportedly assaulted outside his home, sustaining injuries from the altercation. The 43-year-old Volkov, who previously served as Navalny’s chief of staff, remained defiant following the attack, expressing his determination to continue their work despite the threats.
In a video message posted on Telegram, Volkov condemned the violent act, attributing it to the oppressive tactics of Russian President Vladimir Putin’s associates. The activist decried the assault as a calculated effort to silence dissent and intimidate opposition figures. Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda echoed Volkov’s sentiments, denouncing the attack as a deliberate act aimed at stifling opposition voices.
The Lithuanian police confirmed that Volkov was assaulted near his residence in Vilnius late on Tuesday evening. Volkov recounted the incident, describing how unknown assailants targeted him upon his arrival at his home. Despite sustaining injuries to his leg and arm, Volkov remained resolute in his commitment to the opposition movement.
Authorities in Lithuania have launched an investigation into the attack, with the country’s secret service indicating a high probability of Russian involvement in the incident. The assault on Volkov is seen as part of a broader effort to undermine the Russian opposition and suppress dissent ahead of the upcoming presidential election in Russia.
In the wake of Navalny’s recent death in a Russian prison, opposition figures like Volkov have expressed fears for their safety and security. The chilling effect of violence against dissenting voices remains a significant concern, prompting calls for greater international scrutiny and accountability. Despite the risks and challenges they face, Volkov and other opposition members remain steadfast in their mission to advocate for democracy and human rights in Russia.
The attack on Volkov serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by critics of the Putin regime and the lengths to which authoritarian governments will go to silence dissent. As investigators work to uncover the perpetrators behind the assault, the international community continues to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the need for justice and accountability in the face of such brazen attacks on freedom of expression.