In Munich two years ago, Yulia Navalny tragically revealed the death of her husband, Alexei Navalny, at the hands of the Russian state. Today, we have uncovered the brutal circumstances of his demise in a Russian prison. Tests have confirmed the presence of a lethal toxin, epibatidine, from the skin of Ecuador dart frogs in Alexei Navalny’s body, likely leading to his death.
The Russian government had the capability, motivation, and opportunity to administer this deadly toxin to target Navalny while he was incarcerated. Along with other nations investigating the incident, we attribute responsibility for his death to Russia.
This incident is part of a larger pattern of malicious behavior that poses a growing threat to European security and extends to British territory. From attacking innocent civilians in Ukraine to spreading hybrid threats throughout Europe and beyond, Russia’s aggressive actions are concerning.
Following the Cold War, expectations of peaceful cooperation between the UK and Russia have been shattered. We must now prepare to confront Russian aggression, including cyber-attacks, disinformation campaigns, and attempts to undermine democracy.
The UK is taking a firm stance against Russia’s unacceptable behavior. Through prosecutions under the National Security Act and sanctions against the GRU, Russia’s military intelligence agency, we are limiting Russia’s intelligence activities in Europe. By tightening control over Russia’s shadow fleet vessels, we are disrupting Putin’s ability to fund the war in Ukraine.
Our unity is a powerful tool against Russian aggression. Collaborating with allies through NATO strengthens our domestic position. At the Munich Security Conference, efforts are underway to coordinate action with our partners, as outlined by the Prime Minister. Despite Russia’s attempts to divide us, their actions only serve to unite and fortify our resolve.
Yvette Cooper, the UK’s Foreign Secretary and a longstanding Labour MP, is leading these efforts to address the challenges posed by Russia’s actions.