Two years ago in Munich, Yulia Navalny sadly had to announce the tragic passing of her spouse, Alexei Navalny, at the hands of the Russian government.
Today, we stand alongside her to reveal the brutal circumstances surrounding his demise in a Russian prison. Analysis has confirmed the presence of a lethal toxin, epibatidine, derived from Ecuador dart frogs, in Alexei Navalny’s body, likely causing his death.
The Russian authorities had the means, motive, and opportunity to use this deadly substance against Navalny while he was in custody. Together with other nations, we hold Russia accountable for his untimely death.
This incident is part of a broader trend of malicious behavior that poses a growing threat to European security and extends to the streets of Britain. Russia’s aggressive actions range from attacking innocent civilians in Ukraine to spreading hybrid threats throughout Europe and beyond.
Following the Cold War, there were hopes for peace and cooperation between the UK and Russia. However, those aspirations have faded, and we must now prepare to address Russian aggression, including cyber-attacks, disinformation campaigns, and attempts to undermine democracy.
The UK refuses to turn a blind eye to Russia’s deceptive conduct. Enforcements under the National Security Act have already thwarted Russian-linked operatives. Sanctions have been imposed on the GRU, Russia’s foreign military intelligence agency, leading to a reduction in Russia’s intelligence activities across Europe. Measures have been taken to restrict Russia’s financial support for the conflict in Ukraine, such as tightening control over Russia’s shadow fleet vessels.
Our greatest strength lies in unity. Collaborations with international partners, including within NATO, enhance our domestic resilience. During the Munich Security Conference, efforts have been made to coordinate a collective response to Russia’s actions, as outlined by the Prime Minister. Despite Russia’s attempts to divide us, their actions only serve to bolster our determination to stand together.
Yvette Cooper is the Foreign Secretary of the UK. A member of the Labour Party since 1997, she has held various governmental positions, including Chief Secretary to the Treasury, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, Shadow Foreign Secretary, and Shadow Home Secretary. Appointed as Foreign Secretary on September 5, 2025, she previously served as Home Secretary from July 2024. Yvette Cooper has represented Pontefract, Castleford, and Knottingley as an MP since July 2024.