European Interest

Alexei Navalny: EU strongly condemns the poisoning of the Russian opposition leader

Flickr/Michał Siergiejevicz/CC BY 2.0

The toxicological analysis carried out by a specialised laboratory of the German armed forces proves that Alexei Navalny was poisoned by a military-grade chemical nerve agent of the “Novichok” group, developed by the Soviet Union and later, Russia.

According to the Statement by High Representative/Vice-President Josep Borrell the European Union condemns in the strongest possible terms the poisoning of the Russian opposition leader.

“The use of chemical weapons under any circumstances is completely unacceptable and a breach of international law. It is essential that the Russian government investigates thoroughly and in a transparent manner the assassination attempt of Mr Navalny. Alexei Navalny’s case must not go unresolved. Those responsible must be brought to justice,” stated the High Representative.

“We are grateful to the staff of the Charité – Universitätsmedizin hospital in Berlin for their treatment of Mr Navalny and wish him a prompt and full recovery. The European Union will continue to closely follow the issue and discuss its implications”.

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