Russia has set conditions for the release of the opposition leader's body to his mother. The demands include transporting the body to Moscow on a special plane for a secret funeral. This ultimatum follows the delayed viewing of Navalny's body by his mother, nearly a week after his sudden death at a Russian penal colony. The investigators claim to have determined the cause of death, citing natural causes on the medical death certificate, despite suspicions due to Navalny's previous health challenges and recent demeanor.
Navalny's family and friends blame Putin for his death, a sentiment echoed by President Biden, who plans to announce sanctions against Putin. The restrictions imposed by Russia on Navalny's family for the funeral are stringent. The family must not disclose the arrival time of the body, have an investigative committee member present at all times, and keep the body in specific regions to prevent public access.
Furthermore, the chosen cemetery and farewell hall have been denied to Navalny's mother, allegedly under threats. She expressed the desire for people to bid farewell to Navalny and see his body, which has been denied. The authorities' statement about the body beginning to decompose adds to the distress of a mother trying to lay her son to rest.
