Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny's body has been returned to his mother after he died in prison at the age of 47. Navalny was serving a combined 30 ½-year jail sentence when he passed away. The circumstances surrounding his death remain unclear, with the region's investigative committee launching a "procedural investigation."

Navalny, who had survived a poisoning attempt and subsequent treatment in Germany, returned to Russia in 2021 only to be arrested on charges related to a 2014 embezzlement conviction, which he denied. His sentencing led to his allies being persecuted, with his anti-corruption fund being declared an extremist organization and his top staff fleeing abroad.

In the days leading up to his death, Navalny appeared healthy during a court appearance via video link from the penal colony, as noted by his mother and Russian newspaper reports. Navalny's passing comes amidst criticism from Western leaders, with President Joe Biden stating that his death was a consequence of actions by Russian President Vladimir Putin and his government.

The Kremlin has denied any involvement in Navalny's poisoning and subsequent death, referring to the allegations made by Western leaders as "absolutely rabid statements." Plans for Navalny's funeral have not been disclosed as of now, as the world continues to react to the loss of a prominent figure in Russian politics.