MOSCOW - Supporters of Alexei Navalny, the jailed Russian opposition leader, have raised alarm over his disappearance, stating that they have been unable to contact him for nearly a week. Navalny, who is currently serving combined sentences totaling 30 years on charges that are widely viewed as politically motivated, was reported to no longer be at the IK-6 prison colony in the Vladimir region, where he had been held in recent months. His spokeswoman, Kira Yarmysh, posted on social media platform X on Monday, expressing worries over Navalny's unknown location.

Navalny's conviction last summer on extremism charges led to his anticipated transfer to a "special security" penal colony, a facility known for imposing the harshest restrictions in the Russian prison system. However, neither Navalny's lawyers nor his family have been informed of his new whereabouts by officials from Russia's penitentiary service.

The White House has voiced its deep concerns regarding Navalny's disappearance, with previous calls for his release. John Kirby, spokesman for the U.S. National Security Council, stated that steps would be taken to gather more information about the situation through the American embassy in Moscow.

Efforts by Navalny's legal team to visit the IK-6 prison colony, as well as the nearby more restrictive IK-7 colony where he was expected to be transferred, have proven unsuccessful. Yarmysh added that there had been no response from either facility when the lawyers reached out, indicating that Navalny had been missing for six days.

Navalny's latest absence follows Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent announcement of his intention to seek reelection in March. Navalny, who survived a poisoning attempt in August 2020, is considered Putin's most determined opponent. He had organized large-scale anti-government protests and exposed various instances of corruption within the Russian government, including allegations concerning Putin's personal wealth.

Navalny's disappearance has raised concerns further due to his recent health issues. Yarmysh highlighted that Navalny had fallen ill in his cell, experiencing dizziness and necessitating medical attention. The staff at the prison responded promptly, providing treatment and monitoring his condition.

Since his imprisonment, Navalny has continued to speak out against Putin's actions, particularly regarding the war in Ukraine. He has called for the immediate withdrawal of Russian troops and suggested using Russia's oil and gas revenue to compensate those affected. Additionally, Navalny has advocated for a stronger parliamentary system, proposing a reduction in the powers of the Russian president.

In the midst of these developments, the Ukrainian military has launched a long-anticipated counteroffensive against Russian forces that occupy its territory. Ukrainian troops have increased their attacks on the front line in the southeast region, marking a significant push towards Russian-occupied areas.

As concerns mount over Navalny's wellbeing and whereabouts, his supporters and international observers continue to call for his release and push for transparency regarding his current situation.

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