Navalny's spokesperson, Kira Yarmysh, expressed concern over his whereabouts and the possibility that he is deliberately being hidden following President Vladimir Putin's announcement of his candidacy in Russia's upcoming presidential election.

Navalny, who is known as Putin's fiercest foe, had multiple hearings scheduled, some of which were suspended due to his absence. The 47-year-old politician, serving a 19-year term for charges of extremism, has not been in contact with his lawyers since December 6. Concerns have grown that he is being isolated in light of his opposition to Putin's regime.

Yarmysh stated that Navalny's absence is significant as he represents a major opponent to Putin's presidency, despite not being on the ballot. She mentioned that the Russian government would take all measures to silence and isolate him. Navalny's team has launched a campaign urging the Russian population to boycott the upcoming election or vote for an alternative candidate.

Recent developments indicate that Navalny has been moved from Penal Colony No. 6, located east of Moscow, but his exact whereabouts had not been disclosed to his defense lawyers. Efforts to locate him involved writing to over 200 pretrial detention centers and special prison colonies, as well as visiting all detention centers in Moscow, but so far, his location remains unknown.

The suspension of the court proceedings on Monday does not guarantee that Navalny will be located, according to Yarmysh. This worrying situation highlights the challenges faced by Navalny's allies in their quest to ensure his safety and bring attention to his case.

Navalny, who returned to Moscow in January 2021 after recovering from a nerve agent poisoning in Germany, has been a prominent activist fighting against official corruption and organizing anti-Kremlin protests. He has faced several imprisonments and alleged politically motivated charges.

Russian prison transfers are known for their lengthy process, often resulting in limited or unavailable information about the prisoners' whereabouts. Navalny may be transferred to a highly secured penal colony, following his expected move to a "special security" facility in the Russian penitentiary system.

As allies of Navalny intensify their search, concerns continue to mount over his safety, with international entities closely monitoring the situation and advocating for his well-being during this critical period.