Navalny was to be freed in prisoner swap before death – ally

An ally of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has revealed that he was set to be released in a prisoner swap before his untimely death.

Navalny, a fierce critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, was serving a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for alleged parole violations that he and his supporters say were politically motivated.

The ally, who spoke on condition of anonymity, stated that negotiations were underway for Navalny to be freed in exchange for two Russian nationals detained in the United States on charges of smuggling and bank fraud. However, these plans were abruptly halted when Navalny fell ill and subsequently died.

Navalny’s death has sparked international outrage and calls for an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding his demise. Many believe that he was poisoned by Russian authorities, a claim that the Kremlin denies.

Despite his passing, Navalny’s legacy continues to inspire protests against Putin’s government and demands for justice. His ally hopes that the truth will eventually come to light and that those responsible for his death will be held accountable.