Two years ago in Munich, Yulia Navalny tragically announced the death of her husband Alexei Navalny at the hands of the Russian state. Today, we have uncovered the brutal circumstances surrounding his demise in a Russian prison. Tests have confirmed the presence of a lethal toxin, epibatidine, from Ecuador dart frogs in Alexei Navalny’s body, likely leading to his death.
The Russian government had the motive, means, and opportunity to use this deadly toxin against Navalny while he was in prison. Together with other nations’ investigations, we hold Russia accountable for his passing. This incident is part of a broader pattern of malicious activities that pose a threat to European security, extending to British territories. From attacks on Ukrainian civilians to the spread of hybrid threats in Europe and beyond, Russia’s aggression is evident.
Following the Cold War, hopes for peaceful cooperation between the UK and Russia have faded. We must now confront Russian aggression, including cyber-attacks, disinformation campaigns, and attempts to undermine democracy. The UK is taking a firm stand against Russia’s nefarious actions. Through legal actions under the National Security Act, we have exposed and deterred Russian-linked proxies. Sanctions have been imposed on GRU, Russia’s foreign military intelligence agency, weakening Russia’s intelligence network in Europe and disrupting its financial support for the war in Ukraine.
Our unity is our strongest asset in countering Russian aggression. Collaborations with international partners, such as NATO, bolster our domestic strength. At the Munich Security Conference, we have been working with allies on a joint plan of action against Russian threats. While Russia aims to divide us, its actions only serve to unite and strengthen our resolve.
Yvette Cooper, the UK’s Foreign Secretary, has been a Labour MP since 1997. With a background in various government roles, including Shadow Foreign Secretary and Home Secretary, she currently leads the UK’s foreign affairs.