Kremlin's Crackdown Continues: Navalny's Lawyers on Trial

Three lawyers who previously represented opposition leader Alexei Navalny in Russia are on trial, accused of involvement with extremist groups. Their arrests and prosecution are viewed as part of the Kremlin's broader efforts to stifle dissent and discourage legal defense in political cases.

Three lawyers who formerly represented the late Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny were put on trial Thursday, highlighting the Kremlin's intensifying crackdown on dissent.

Vadim Kobzev, Igor Sergunin, and Alexei Liptser face charges of involvement with extremist groups after their arrest in October 2023. This move is seen as a tactic to deter defense lawyers from taking on politically sensitive cases.

Navalny, serving a 19-year sentence for extremism, had his network deemed extremist, stifling his anti-corruption activities. His allies claim the charges against the lawyers are politically motivated, meant to prevent them from passing information from Navalny. Human rights advocates demand their release.

(With inputs from agencies.)