RUSSIA: Yulia Navalnaya, the widow of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny, has expressed her intention to run for president of Russia once Vladimir Putin is no longer in power. She remains committed to opposing Putin's regime and continues her husband's legacy through the Anti-Corruption Foundation, which advocates for justice and transparency.

In a recent interview, Yulia confidently declared her plans, stating, "I will participate in the elections… as a candidate." She views Putin as her primary political opponent and is determined to work towards the downfall of his regime. However, she is aware that returning to Russia while Putin is still in power could lead to her arrest. The government has accused her of involvement in extremism, a serious charge that can have dire consequences in the country.

Alexei Navalny, known for being Putin’s most vocal critic, was sentenced to 19 years on extremism charges that many viewed as politically motivated. He tragically died in February in a harsh penal colony in the Arctic Circle, a death that U.S. President Joe Biden attributed to Putin's regime. The Russian government has denied any involvement in Navalny's death.

During her interview in a London legal library, Yulia Navalnaya reflected on her husband's vision for a different Russia. As she prepares to release "Patriot," the memoir Alexei was working on before his death, she reaffirmed her dedication to fighting for democracy in Russia.

Yulia acknowledges that, as long as Putin is in power, she cannot return to her home country. Nevertheless, she remains hopeful for a future where Russia is free and open, believing that the opportunity for free and fair elections will eventually arise. When that moment comes, she intends to be ready to take part.

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