The Russian opposition leader, who passed away earlier this month, made the remarks in a 2020 interview obtained by Sky News. He also talks about his hopes for Russia and the risks he knew he was taking.
by Sophie Alexander, International Affairs Producer
Monday 26 February 2024 00:09 UK
Alexei Navalny previously slammed “corrupt officials” in London who are believed to have helped Vladimir Putin’s government hide dirty money, Sky News has revealed.
In an unpublished interview obtained by Sky News, late Russian opposition leader He spoke of his hope for a better future for his country and the risks he knew he was taking.
He made this comment in an interview four years before taking office. death in exile North of the Arctic Circle.
considered to be the most vocal critic of president putinMr. Navalny collapsed, could not regain consciousness February 16th.
The interview took place in February 2020 and is believed to be one of the last interviews Navalny will give while he is still healthy.
In August of the same year, he was poisoned on a plane returning to Moscow.
The wide-ranging interview covers his hopes for Russia’s future as part of Europe, his personal safety and some harsh words for Britain and the West regarding letting Mr Putin’s inner circle go.
“I think Western countries are doing absolutely nothing. There are some ritual dances, but nothing really happens,” he says.
“Why are corrupt officials still living in London? It’s because these corrupt officials feed a huge number of great London lawyers.
analysis:
Navalny’s interview is a damning accusation from beyond the grave
“These people would seem very civilized, if they sat next to us we would be happy to chat with them, they would wear ties and have proper manners. They’re wearing it, and at the same time, they’re serving the interests of a completely outright bandit.”
The UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Department paid tribute to Mr Navalny’s life of exposing corruption in Russia.
It added: “The UK has sanctioned 2,000 individuals, companies and organizations under its Russia Sanctions Regime alone, while directly targeting Putin-linked elites in the UK through the National Crime Agency’s Anti-Theft Unit. Theft is never welcome in our country,” he added. . ”
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“Russia is a European country, and everyone who lives here wants to live like a European,” Navalny said in words that resonate even more loudly now after his death in prison.
“So I hope that in 10 years, if you interview me again, I can tell you how we overcame corrupt money laundering.”
The interview, obtained by Sky News and broadcast for the first time, was filmed as part of the unaired documentary series After the Fall, directed by Matthew Thorne and produced by Andrew Duncan.