5000 arrested in Russian protests - 3rd February 2021

Tens of thousands of Russians have been taking part in unauthorised demonstrations denouncing Kremlin rule and demanding the release of anti-corruption campaigner and opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

Navalny was jailed on 17th January upon his arrival in Russia from Germany where he had been recuperating from Novichok poisoning. Navalny blames the Russian security services for the near-fatal attempt on his life, but the Kremlin denies being behind the attack.

Despite the biting cold, supporters of the Kremlin critic held rallies in over 100 cities across the country for the second weekend running. Taking unprecedented security measures to paralyse the protests, police shut down 7 Moscow metro stations and detained over 5000 protestors.

Navalny’s wife Yulia and brother Oleg, along with other family members and associates, were picked up by police citing coronavirus violations at previous demonstrations.

Many demonstrators brandished gold painted toilet brushes in response to claims that President Putin had been gifted a $1.35 billion Black Sea property furnished with toilet brushes costing over $800 apiece. Putin has refuted the allegations.

One focal point for the protests has been the Moscow detention centre where Navalny is currently in custody. He is facing potentially years behind bars, despite calls from Western governments for his release.