Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny has been sentenced to an additional 19 years in prison following his conviction on a series of new charges, according to his supporters on social media. The sentence stems from his trial on six different charges, including inciting extremist activity, financing it, and establishing an extremist organization.
In a video from the trial session held in a penal colony in East Moscow, Navalny was seen wearing a black prison uniform while listening to the verdict. In a statement posted on social media by his lawyers and supporters, Navalny indicated that he faces life imprisonment unless the current ruling authorities are first overthrown.
He stated, "Nineteen years in a high-security penal colony. The number of years is not what concerns me. I fully realize that, like other political prisoners, I am serving a life sentence. The life sentence will depend on my life or the lifespan of this regime." He added, "You are being forced to surrender your country, Russia, without a fight to a gang of traitors, thieves, and scoundrels who have seized power. Putin must not achieve his goal. Do not lose the will to resist."
Prosecutors had requested a 20-year sentence. Navalny, 47, the most prominent critic of Russian President Vladimir Putin, is already serving sentences totaling 11 and a half years for fraud and other charges that he claims are fabricated.
