Vilnius, Lithuania – Leonid Volkov, a prominent Russian opposition activist and close associate of the late Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, faced a violent attack outside his home in Lithuania. Volkov, who currently resides in exile in Lithuania and previously served as Navalny’s chief of staff, was left injured after the incident.
In a defiant video message posted on Telegram, Volkov vowed to continue their fight against the Russian government despite the attack. Referring to the assailants as “Putin’s henchmen,” Volkov described the incident as a “typical bandit salute.” Following his release from the hospital, Volkov recounted the harrowing experience, stating that his attackers had attempted to severely harm him.
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda condemned the attack on Volkov, labeling it a deliberate act orchestrated by unknown entities. Nauseda expressed determination in ensuring that the culprits behind the assault are brought to justice, emphasizing the importance of a thorough investigation.
The assault on Volkov occurred late in the evening outside his residence in Vilnius, with the activist sustaining injuries to his leg and arm. While Volkov noted that his leg was bruised but not seriously injured, he highlighted that his arm had been broken during the attack. The motive behind the assault remains unclear, with Lithuanian authorities actively investigating the incident.
As Volkov continues to recover from the attack, the resolve of those standing against the Russian regime remains steadfast. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by individuals who speak out against the government in Russia and its allies. Despite the challenges, activists like Volkov remain committed to advocating for democracy and accountability in the face of adversity. The ongoing investigation into the assault reflects the commitment of Lithuanian authorities to uphold justice and confront threats to freedom of expression.