Alexei Navalny: Polar Wolf, the tragic end of the Russian opposition leader

Alexei Navalny faced harsh conditions in the Russian prison IK-3, known as the "Polar Wolf," where he ultimately passed away. In this penal center, located in the Yamalo-Nenets region, inmates were subjected to extreme punishments, such as being left outdoors in winter without warm clothing or being sprayed with cold water if they didn't remain still. During snowy months, the ground was covered in white, while in summer they had to endure swarms of mosquitoes. Navalny, who had spent nearly 300 days in isolation in IK-3, strove to stay relevant by denouncing the prison conditions and seeking to improve the situation of the inmates. Despite his wit and humor, the reality of his daily life was truly challenging. Amidst mental and physical health issues, Navalny fought for his well-being in a penitentiary system that has been criticized for its history of torture and mistreatment. The death of the opposition leader has left a void in the Russian resistance, eliciting a sense of mourning among those who saw him as a symbol of hope in a complex political context. While the protest movement may weaken, his legacy will continue to live on in those who remember him as a figure of courage and determination.