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 harrowing circumstances of his demise in a Russian prison. Tests have revealed the presence of a lethal toxin, epibatidine, extracted from Ecuador dart frogs, in Alexei Navalny’s body, likely causing his death.
The Russian government had the ability, motive, and opportunity to administer this deadly substance to Navalny while he was incarcerated. Along with other nations’ investigations, we assign responsibility to Russia for his passing.
This incident is part of a broader trend of hostile behavior that poses a growing threat to European security, extending even to British soil. Russia’s aggression ranges from attacking innocent civilians in Ukraine to spreading hybrid threats throughout Europe and beyond.
Following the Cold War, there were expectations of cooperation and peace between the UK and Russia. However, those hopes have faded, and we must now prepare to counter Russian aggression, including cyber-attacks, disinformation campaigns, and attempts to undermine democracy.
The UK is taking a firm stance against Russia’s malevolent actions. Prosecutions under the National Security Act have exposed and deterred Russian-linked proxies. Sanctions have been imposed on the GRU, Russia’s foreign military intelligence agency, reducing Russia’s intelligence presence in Europe. Efforts are also underway to restrict Russia’s financial support for the war in Ukraine.
Unity is our most potent weapon. Collaborations with allies, including through NATO, enhance our strength. At the Munich Security Conference, we are working with partners to establish a unified approach to address these challenges. Russia may seek to divide us, but instead, its actions only serve to strengthen our resolve.
Yvette Cooper, the UK’s Foreign Secretary and Labour MP since 1997, has played crucial roles in various government positions. As Foreign Secretary, she is committed to addressing the threats posed by Russian aggression and reinforcing alliances for collective security.