Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny’s allies have called for a new protest across the country to demand his release from prison. The organisers claimed in a YouTube statement that the rally would the biggest Russia has seen. Last month, Mr Navalny was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in prison for violating the terms of his probation while convalescing in Germany. Mr Navalny’s arrest fuelled a series of protests that drew tens of thousands to the streets across Russia. Several top associates of Mr Navalny have faced charges of violating coronavirus restrictions by calling for protests, and have been put under house arrest.

Source: Irish Independent March 23, 2021 13:39 UTC